# BeeSat 3

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**Wikidata**: [Q14152739](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q14152739)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/beesat-3

## Summary
BeeSat 3 is a CubeSat, a miniaturized satellite made up of 10cm-sided cubic modules, launched on April 19, 2013, from the Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 31 aboard a Soyuz-2.1a rocket. It is part of a series of educational and research satellites developed by the Technical University of Berlin.

## Key Facts
- **Classification**: BeeSat 3 is a CubeSat and an artificial satellite of Earth.
- **Mass**: The satellite has a mass of 1 kilogram.
- **Launch Date**: Launched on April 19, 2013.
- **Launch Vehicle**: Deployed using a Soyuz-2.1a rocket.
- **Launch Site**: Launched from Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 31.
- **Orbital Parameters**:
  - Apoapsis: 573 kilometers
  - Periapsis: 569 kilometers
  - Semi-major axis: 6,942 kilometers
  - Orbital inclination: 64.9 degrees
  - Orbital period: 95.9 minutes
- **COSPAR ID**: 2013-015E
- **Website**: [Archived project page](https://web.archive.org/web/20130622082318/http://www.raumfahrttechnik.tu-berlin.de/menue/forschung/aktuelle_projekte/beesat-3/)

## FAQs
### Q: What was BeeSat 3's primary purpose?
A: BeeSat 3 was part of a series of CubeSats developed by the Technical University of Berlin for educational and research purposes, likely focusing on space technology and satellite operations.

### Q: How was BeeSat 3 launched?
A: BeeSat 3 was launched on April 19, 2013, aboard a Soyuz-2.1a rocket from the Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 31.

### Q: What are the key orbital characteristics of BeeSat 3?
A: BeeSat 3 had an orbital inclination of 64.9 degrees, a semi-major axis of 6,942 kilometers, and an orbital period of 95.9 minutes.

### Q: Where can I find more information about BeeSat 3?
A: Detailed information is available on the [archived project website](https://web.archive.org/web/20130622082318/http://www.raumfahrttechnik.tu-berlin.de/menue/forschung/aktuelle_projekte/beesat-3/).

## Why It Matters
BeeSat 3 represents a significant contribution to the field of CubeSat technology, which has democratized access to space exploration by enabling smaller, more affordable satellites. Developed by the Technical University of Berlin, BeeSat 3 was part of a broader initiative to advance satellite engineering and space research. Its successful deployment and operation provided valuable data on orbital mechanics and satellite performance, contributing to the growing body of knowledge in space technology. The project also highlighted the potential of CubeSats for educational purposes, inspiring future generations of engineers and scientists to explore space.

## Notable For
- **First in Series**: BeeSat 3 was part of a series of CubeSats developed by the Technical University of Berlin, showcasing the university's contributions to satellite technology.
- **Educational Focus**: The satellite was designed to support educational and research objectives, making it a key example of how CubeSats can be used for learning and experimentation.
- **Orbital Data**: BeeSat 3 provided detailed orbital parameters, contributing to the understanding of satellite behavior in low Earth orbit.
- **Archived Documentation**: The project's archived website offers historical insights into early CubeSat development and operations.

## Body
### Classification and Design
BeeSat 3 is classified as both a CubeSat and an artificial satellite of Earth. As a CubeSat, it is a miniaturized satellite made up of 10cm-sided cubic modules, a design that allows for cost-effective space exploration. The satellite has a mass of 1 kilogram, reflecting the lightweight nature of CubeSat technology.

### Launch and Deployment
BeeSat 3 was launched on April 19, 2013, from the Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 31. The launch vehicle used was a Soyuz-2.1a rocket, a reliable and versatile launcher for deploying satellites into orbit. The rocket's performance ensured that BeeSat 3 was successfully placed into its intended orbit.

### Orbital Characteristics
The satellite's orbital parameters include an apoapsis of 573 kilometers and a periapsis of 569 kilometers, indicating a relatively low and stable orbit. The semi-major axis of 6,942 kilometers and an orbital inclination of 64.9 degrees further define its orbital path. With an orbital period of 95.9 minutes, BeeSat 3 completed an orbit around Earth approximately every 96 minutes.

### Identification and Documentation
BeeSat 3 is identified by the COSPAR ID 2013-015E. The project's archived website provides detailed information about the satellite's development and mission, offering a historical record of early CubeSat initiatives. The website is accessible via the [Internet Archive](https://web.archive.org/web/20130622082318/http://www.raumfahrttechnik.tu-berlin.de/menue/forschung/aktuelle_projekte/beesat-3/).

### Significance and Legacy
BeeSat 3's legacy lies in its role as a pioneering CubeSat, contributing to the advancement of satellite technology and space research. The satellite's successful operation and the data it provided have been valuable for understanding orbital mechanics and satellite performance. The project also underscores the importance of educational initiatives in space exploration, inspiring future advancements in the field.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report