# ³Cat-4

> Spanish technology demonstration CubeSat

**Wikidata**: [Q128463666](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q128463666)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/3cat-4

## Summary
³Cat-4 is a Spanish technology demonstration CubeSat developed by the Polytechnic University of Catalonia. Launched on July 9, 2024, aboard an Ariane 62 rocket, it serves as an Earth observation satellite and technology demonstrator.

## Key Facts
- Launched on July 9, 2024, at 19:00:00 from ELA-4 launch site
- Developed and operated by the Polytechnic University of Catalonia
- Weighs 1.3 kilograms and measures 100mm × 100mm × 595.75mm (deployed)
- Has a volume of 1 CubeSat unit (10cm³)
- Sponsored by the European Space Agency
- Follows ³Cat-3 as the next nanosatellite in the series
- Classified as an Earth observation satellite, technology demonstration spacecraft, and CubeSat
- Has COSPAR ID 2024-128B and NORAD ID 60236

## FAQs
### Q: What is ³Cat-4?
A: ³Cat-4 is a Spanish technology demonstration CubeSat developed by the Polytechnic University of Catalonia for Earth observation and experimental technology testing.

### Q: When was ³Cat-4 launched?
A: ³Cat-4 was launched on July 9, 2024, at 19:00:00 aboard an Ariane 62 rocket from the ELA-4 launch site.

### Q: Who developed ³Cat-4?
A: ³Cat-4 was developed by the Polytechnic University of Catalonia (Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya) in Barcelona, Spain.

## Why It Matters
³Cat-4 represents Spain's continued advancement in space technology and nanosatellite development. As a technology demonstration mission, it allows researchers to test and validate new systems and capabilities in the space environment before they are implemented in larger, more expensive missions. The satellite contributes to Earth observation capabilities while providing valuable hands-on experience for students and researchers at the Polytechnic University of Catalonia. Its development and operation demonstrate Spain's growing role in the European space sector and its contribution to the CubeSat community. The mission also strengthens collaboration between academic institutions and space agencies like the European Space Agency, fostering innovation in satellite technology and space-based Earth observation.

## Notable For
- First Spanish CubeSat launched aboard an Ariane 62 rocket
- Demonstrates advanced Earth observation technologies in a miniaturized form factor
- Represents the latest evolution in the ³Cat series of nanosatellites from UPC
- Serves as a technology testbed for future space missions
- Operated entirely by a Spanish university, showcasing academic space capabilities

## Body
### Development and Mission
³Cat-4 was developed by the Nanosat Lab at the Polytechnic University of Catalonia as part of their ongoing ³Cat series of nanosatellites. The mission focuses on technology demonstration and Earth observation capabilities, building upon the experience gained from previous ³Cat missions.

### Technical Specifications
The satellite has a mass of 1.3 kilograms and a compact form factor typical of CubeSats. When deployed, it measures 100mm × 100mm × 595.75mm, representing a 1U volume configuration. The satellite's small size and weight make it cost-effective to launch while still providing meaningful scientific and technological capabilities.

### Launch and Operations
³Cat-4 launched on July 9, 2024, aboard an Ariane 62 rocket as part of the VA262 mission from ELA-4. The European Space Agency sponsored the mission, highlighting the collaboration between academic institutions and European space agencies. The satellite is operated by the Polytechnic University of Catalonia, with ground control and data processing conducted at their facilities in Barcelona.

### Classification and Purpose
The satellite serves multiple roles: as an Earth observation satellite for monitoring our planet, as a technology demonstration spacecraft for testing new systems, and as a CubeSat representing the standardized small satellite format. This multi-purpose approach maximizes the scientific return from the mission while providing valuable operational experience for the development team.

## Schema Markup
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  "@context": "https://schema.org",
  "@type": "Thing",
  "name": "³Cat-4",
  "description": "Spanish technology demonstration CubeSat developed by the Polytechnic University of Catalonia",
  "url": "https://nanosatlab.upc.edu/en/missions-and-projects/3cat-4",
  "sameAs": [
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  "additionalType": "Earth observation satellite"
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## References

1. [Source](https://space.skyrocket.de/doc_sdat/3cat-4.htm)
2. [Meet the team: 3Cat-4](https://www.esa.int/Education/CubeSats_-_Fly_Your_Satellite/Meet_the_team_3Cat-4)
3. [Source](https://nanosatlab.upc.edu/en/missions-and-projects/3cat-4)
4. SATCAT
5. [Source](https://nextspaceflight.com/launches/details/444)
6. Jonathan's Space Report