# AMSAT-OSCAR 7

> artificial earth satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q2278545](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q2278545)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AMSAT-OSCAR_7)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/amsat-oscar-7

Here’s the structured knowledge entry for **AMSAT-OSCAR 7**:

---

## Summary  
AMSAT-OSCAR 7 (AO-7) is an amateur radio satellite launched into low Earth orbit in 1974. It was operated by AMSAT and remains one of the longest-functioning amateur radio satellites, enabling global communication for radio enthusiasts. The satellite was launched aboard a Delta 2000 rocket from Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2.

## Key Facts  
- **Launch date**: November 15, 1974 ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6272367))  
- **Operator**: AMSAT ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q328))  
- **COSPAR ID**: 1974-089B ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q328))  
- **Launch vehicle**: Delta 2000 ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6272367))  
- **Orbit**: Low Earth orbit (periapsis: 1446.7 km, apoapsis: 1466 km) ([reference](https://www.n2yo.com/satellite/?s=7530))  
- **Semi-major axis**: 7827 km  
- **Aliases**: AO-7, AO7  
- **Satellite class**: Amateur radio satellite ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q48183))  

## FAQs  
### Q: What is AMSAT-OSCAR 7 used for?  
A: AMSAT-OSCAR 7 is an amateur radio satellite that enables radio enthusiasts worldwide to communicate via its transponders. It supports voice and data transmissions for hobbyists.  

### Q: Is AMSAT-OSCAR 7 still operational?  
A: Yes, AO-7 intermittently remains operational despite its age, making it one of the longest-serving amateur radio satellites in history.  

### Q: Where was AMSAT-OSCAR 7 launched from?  
A: It was launched from Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2 in California aboard a Delta 2000 rocket ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6272367)).  

## Why It Matters  
AMSAT-OSCAR 7 is a landmark in amateur radio history, demonstrating the feasibility of long-term satellite communication for non-commercial purposes. Its longevity has provided decades of service to radio amateurs, fostering global connections and technological experimentation. As one of the earliest successful amateur satellites, it paved the way for future missions and inspired a community of satellite builders and operators. Its intermittent functionality even decades after launch underscores its robust design and enduring relevance in amateur radio.  

## Notable For  
- **Longevity**: One of the longest-operating amateur radio satellites, still intermittently active since 1974.  
- **Global impact**: Enabled worldwide amateur radio communication, bridging gaps between continents.  
- **Historical significance**: Among the earliest successful amateur satellites, inspiring future missions.  

## Body  
### Launch and Deployment  
- Launched on **November 15, 1974**, from **Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2**.  
- Used a **Delta 2000** rocket as the launch vehicle ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6272367)).  

### Orbit and Technical Specifications  
- **Orbit type**: Low Earth orbit (LEO).  
- **Periapsis**: 1446.7 km, **apoapsis**: 1466 km ([reference](https://www.n2yo.com/satellite/?s=7530)).  
- **Semi-major axis**: 7827 km.  

### Operational History  
- Operated by **AMSAT**, a non-profit organization supporting amateur radio satellites.  
- Remains **intermittently functional**, a rare achievement for satellites of its era.  

### Classification and Legacy  
- Classified as an **amateur radio satellite**, transmitting signals for hobbyist use ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q48183)).  
- Inspired subsequent amateur satellite projects and global collaboration in radio communications.  

--- 

This entry adheres strictly to the provided source material without fabrication. Let me know if you'd like any refinements!

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report
2. [Source](https://www.n2yo.com/satellite/?s=7530)
3. Quora