# COMPASS-2

> Russian satellite designed to study geomagnetic fluctuations for earthquake monitoring

**Wikidata**: [Q1124844](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q1124844)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/compass-2-q1124844

## Summary
COMPASS-2 is a Russian satellite launched to study geomagnetic fluctuations for earthquake monitoring, developed by IZMIRAN and the Makeyev Federal Rocket Center. It was launched on May 26, 2006, using a Shtil' rocket, a modified submarine-launched ballistic missile. The mission aimed to improve understanding of seismic activity through space-based observations.

## Key Facts
- **Launch Date**: May 26, 2006.
- **Sponsor**: Roscosmos State Corporation.
- **Manufacturer**: IZMIRAN (Institute of Terrestrial Magnetism, Ionosphere and Radio Wave Propagation) and Makeyev Federal Rocket Center.
- **Launch Vehicle**: Shtil', a modified R-29RM submarine-launched ballistic missile.
- **COSPAR ID**: 2006-019A.
- **Primary Mission**: Study geomagnetic fluctuations to monitor earthquake activity.
- **Website**: http://compass.izmiran.ru/ (English language).
- **Aliases**: Complex Orbital Magnet-Plasma Autonomous Small Satellite, Kompas-2.

## FAQs
### Q: When was COMPASS-2 launched?
A: COMPASS-2 was launched on May 26, 2006, from the Barents Sea using a Shtil' rocket.

### Q: What was the main purpose of the COMPASS-2 mission?
A: The satellite was designed to study geomagnetic fluctuations to improve earthquake monitoring and prediction capabilities.

### Q: Who developed COMPASS-2?
A: It was developed by IZMIRAN (Russian Academy of Sciences) and the Makeyev Federal Rocket Center.

## Why It Matters
COMPASS-2 represents a collaborative effort between Russian scientific and engineering institutions to advance earthquake prediction through space-based geomagnetic research. By studying fluctuations in Earth's magnetic field, the mission aimed to address a critical gap in understanding seismic activity, which could improve disaster preparedness and mitigation strategies. The use of a modified military missile (Shtil') for the launch also highlights cost-effective repurposing of existing technology for civilian scientific endeavors. While the satellite's operational lifespan and data contributions require further verification, its mission underscores the potential of space-based tools in addressing global challenges like natural disaster prediction.

## Notable For
- **Unique Launch System**: Utilized the Shtil' rocket, a converted submarine-launched ballistic missile, demonstrating repurposed military technology for scientific use.
- **Earthquake Monitoring Focus**: One of few satellites specifically designed to link geomagnetic data to seismic activity.
- **International Collaboration**: Despite being a Russian project, its mission and data were shared via an English-language website, indicating broader scientific engagement.
- **Compact Design**: Developed as a small satellite, emphasizing cost-effective and efficient space research platforms.

## Body
### Mission Overview
COMPASS-2, also known as Kompas-2, was a small satellite mission led by Russia's IZMIRAN and the Makeyev Federal Rocket Center. Its primary objective was to investigate geomagnetic fluctuations in low Earth orbit, with a focus on correlating these phenomena with seismic activity to enhance earthquake monitoring systems.

### Launch Details
- **Date**: May 26, 2006.
- **Launch Vehicle**: Shtil' (modified R-29RM missile).
- **Launch Site**: Barents Sea, with mission control based in Ekaterinburg.
- **COSPAR Designation**: 2006-019A.
- **Satellite Catalog Number (SCN)**: 29157.

### Technical Specifications
- **Manufacturer**: IZMIRAN (scientific payload) and Makeyev Federal Rocket Center (spacecraft bus).
- **Sponsor**: Roscosmos State Corporation.
- **Mission Duration**: Specific operational lifespan not detailed in sources, but the launch was declared successful.

### Legacy
COMPASS-2 contributed to international efforts in space-based geophysical research, particularly in the niche field of earthquake prediction. While its long-term scientific impact requires further analysis, the mission demonstrated Russia's capability to deploy specialized satellites using adapted military hardware. The project's findings were accessible via an English-language website, fostering global academic collaboration in geomagnetic studies.

## References

1. [Source](https://directory.eoportal.org/web/eoportal/satellite-missions/c-missions/compass-2)
2. Jonathan's Space Report
3. [Source](http://compass.izmiran.ru/news)