# AAUSAT3

> cubeSat built and operated by Aalborg University, Denmark

**Wikidata**: [Q4649953](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q4649953)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AAUSat-3)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/aausat3

## Summary
AAUSAT3 is a CubeSat designed, built, and operated by Aalborg University in Denmark. Launched in 2013 aboard India’s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), it serves as a educational and research platform, demonstrating the capabilities of student-driven space projects. The satellite is part of the global CubeSat initiative, emphasizing low-cost, accessible space technology.

## Key Facts
- **Launch Date**: February 25, 2013
- **Operator**: Aalborg University (established in 1974)
- **Class**: CubeSat (10cm-sided cubic modules)
- **Launch Vehicle**: Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV)
- **Launch Site**: Satish Dhawan Space Centre First Launch Pad
- **COSPAR ID**: 2013-009B
- **SCN**: 39087
- **Wolfram Language Entity Code**: Entity["Satellite", "39087"]

## FAQs
### Q: Who built and operates AAUSAT3?
A: AAUSAT3 was built and is operated by Aalborg University in Denmark, a public institution founded in 1974.

### Q: When and how was AAUSAT3 launched?
A: The satellite launched on February 25, 2013, aboard the Indian Space Research Organisation’s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre.

### Q: What type of satellite is AAUSAT3?
A: It is a CubeSat, a class of miniaturized satellites composed of 10cm-sided cubic modules, designed for low-cost space research and education.

## Why It Matters
AAUSAT3 represents a milestone in academic participation in space exploration, showcasing the feasibility of student-led satellite projects. As a CubeSat, it contributes to the growing trend of low-cost, accessible space technology, enabling universities and small organizations to conduct orbital research. Its launch via India’s PSLV highlights international collaboration in space endeavors, reinforcing the role of emerging nations in the global space sector. By providing hands-on experience for students, AAUSAT3 plays a critical role in education and innovation, fostering the next generation of aerospace engineers and researchers.

## Notable For
- **Student-Built Satellite**: Developed by students at Aalborg University, demonstrating academic capability in space engineering.
- **International Collaboration**: Launched by India’s PSLV, reflecting cooperative efforts in space technology.
- **CubeSat Pioneer**: Part of the early wave of CubeSats, advancing the use of modular, cost-effective satellite platforms.
- **University-Operated**: One of few satellites fully operated by an academic institution, emphasizing educational and research goals.

## Body
### Overview
AAUSAT3 is a CubeSat developed by Aalborg University, Denmark, as part of its academic and research initiatives. Classified under the CubeSat standard (1U), it measures 10cm per side and adheres to the modular design principles of this satellite class.

### Launch Details
- **Date**: February 25, 2013
- **Vehicle**: Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV)
- **Launch Site**: Satish Dhawan Space Centre First Launch Pad, India
- **Mission**: The launch marked a collaborative effort between Aalborg University and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).

### Technical Specifications
- **COSPAR ID**: 2013-009B
- **SCN**: 39087
- **Operator**: Aalborg University (founded 1974)
- **Wolfram Language Code**: Entity["Satellite", "39087"]
- **Image**: [AAUSAT3-FM.jpg](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:FilePath/AAUSAT3-FM.jpg)

### Mission & Operations
AAUSAT3 operates as a technology demonstrator and educational tool, providing students with practical experience in satellite design, launch, and orbital operations. Its mission aligns with Aalborg University’s focus on problem-based learning and innovation in engineering.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report
2. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013