# Chasqui I

> nanosatellite, first to be hand-deployed

**Wikidata**: [Q5087403](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q5087403)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chasqui_I)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/chasqui-i

## Summary  
Chasqui I is a Peruvian nanosatellite built to the CubeSat standard that became the first satellite ever to be hand‑deployed in orbit. It was launched on 5 February 2014 aboard a Soyuz‑U rocket and is operated by the National University of Engineering in Peru.

## Key Facts  
- **Launch date:** 5 February 2014 (launch of Chasqui I)【source】  
- **Launch vehicle:** Soyuz‑U rocket (Soviet‑origin launch system)【source】  
- **Operator:** National University of Engineering, Peru【source】  
- **COSPAR ID:** 1998‑067ET【source】  
- **Spacecraft number (SCN):** 40117【source】  
- **Class:** CubeSat (miniaturized 10 cm‑sided cubic satellite)【source】  
- **Country of origin:** Peru【source】  
- **Twitter handle:** @chasqui1 (active from 12 Jan 2010 to at least 22 Mar 2020)【source】  
- **Named after:** “Chaqui,” a historic Incan messenger system【source】  
- **Image:** ![Chasqui I](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:FilePath/Chasqui1.jpg)【source】

## FAQs  
### Q: What makes Chasqui I different from other CubeSats?  
A: Chasqui I is the first satellite to be hand‑deployed, meaning an astronaut physically released it into orbit rather than using an automated dispenser.

### Q: Who built and operates Chasqui I?  
A: The satellite was designed, built, and is operated by the National University of Engineering in Peru.

### Q: When and how was Chasqui I launched?  
A: It was launched on 5 February 2014 aboard a Soyuz‑U launch vehicle from the Baikonur Cosmodrome.

### Q: What is the purpose of Chasqui I?  
A: As an educational nanosatellite, it provides hands‑on experience for Peruvian students in space engineering and demonstrates Peru’s capability to contribute to low‑cost space missions.

### Q: Where can I follow updates about Chasqui I?  
A: Updates were posted on its official Twitter account @chasqui1, active from early 2010 through at least March 2020.

## Why It Matters  
Chasqui I represents a milestone for Peru’s emerging space sector and for the broader CubeSat community. By achieving the first hand‑deployment of a nanosatellite, it proved that low‑cost, small‑scale spacecraft could be released manually, expanding the range of deployment options for future missions. Operated by a university, the project gave Peruvian engineering students direct involvement in all mission phases—from design and integration to post‑launch operations—building local expertise and inspiring a new generation of space professionals. The mission also showcased Peru’s ability to collaborate internationally, using a Russian Soyuz‑U launcher to reach orbit, thereby positioning the country as a participant in global space activities. In an era where CubeSats democratize access to space, Chasqui I’s success underscores the educational, scientific, and diplomatic value of small satellite programs for developing nations.

## Notable For  
- First satellite ever hand‑deployed in orbit.  
- First Peruvian CubeSat to reach space.  
- Launched on a historic Soyuz‑U launch vehicle.  
- Operated entirely by a university (National University of Engineering).  
- Served as a practical training platform for Peruvian aerospace students.

## Body  

### Development and Design  
- Built to the 1U CubeSat specification (10 cm × 10 cm × 10 cm).  
- Designed and assembled by students and faculty at the National University of Engineering.  
- Named after “Chaqui,” the Incan messenger system, reflecting cultural heritage.  

### Launch Campaign  
- Selected for launch on a Soyuz‑U rocket, a variant of the Soviet‑origin Soyuz family.  
- Launch occurred on 5 February 2014, recorded as a significant event (rocket launch).  
- COSPAR identifier assigned: 1998‑067ET.  

### Operational Profile  
- After hand‑deployment, the satellite entered a low‑Earth orbit, where it conducted telemetry and experimental payload operations.  
- Managed remotely via ground stations operated by the university.  
- Public outreach and mission updates were shared through the @chasqui1 Twitter account.  

### Legacy and Impact  
- Demonstrated that hand‑deployment is a viable method for nanosatellite release, influencing subsequent mission designs.  
- Strengthened Peru’s presence in the international space community and encouraged further academic satellite projects.  
- Provided a template for cost‑effective, university‑led space missions that combine technical training with national pride.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report