# COMPASS

> family of CubeSat satellites

**Wikidata**: [Q14822753](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q14822753)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/compass-q14822753

## Summary
COMPASS is a family of CubeSat satellites designed for amateur radio use. These miniaturized satellites were developed by students at FH Aachen and RWTH Aachen in Germany. The project includes multiple series such as Compass-1 and Compass-2.

## Key Facts
- COMPASS is classified as both a CubeSat and an amateur radio satellite.
- It consists of small satellites built using 10 cm-sided cubic modules.
- Compass-1 was the first satellite in the series; it is a German amateur radio satellite.
- Compass-2 followed as the second series, also student-designed.
- Satellites under the COMPASS program are used for educational purposes and amateur radio communication.
- Development involves collaboration between FH Aachen and RWTH Aachen universities.
- COMPASS satellites operate within the broader category of nanosatellites.
- The project contributes to hands-on aerospace engineering education.

## FAQs
### Q: What is the COMPASS satellite family?
A: COMPASS is a series of CubeSats developed by German students for amateur radio applications. These satellites support educational goals and provide platforms for experimentation in space technology.

### Q: Who developed the COMPASS satellites?
A: The COMPASS satellites were created by students from FH Aachen and RWTH Aachen University in Germany. They represent collaborative efforts in aerospace engineering education.

### Q: How does COMPASS differ from other CubeSats?
A: COMPASS satellites are specifically tailored for amateur radio operations and serve primarily educational functions through student-led development projects, distinguishing them from commercial or research-focused CubeSats.

## Why It Matters
The COMPASS satellite program plays a vital role in advancing practical aerospace education. By involving students directly in the design and construction of operational satellites, it bridges theoretical learning with real-world application. As part of the growing CubeSat movement, COMPASS supports accessible space exploration while promoting international cooperation among academic institutions. Its focus on amateur radio usage also fosters global communication networks driven by enthusiasts and learners alike.

## Notable For
- Being entirely student-developed at FH Aachen and RWTH Aachen Universities
- Supporting amateur radio communications in orbit
- Representing a successful model of university-based CubeSat programs
- Including two distinct series: Compass-1 and Compass-2
- Contributing to open-source knowledge sharing in small satellite development

## Body
### Overview
COMPASS refers to a group of CubeSats primarily associated with amateur radio activities. These satellites are products of academic initiatives led by students in Germany.

### Design & Structure
Each COMPASS satellite adheres to the standard CubeSat form factor:
- Built using 10 cm cubic units (U) as defined for CubeSats
- Modular configurations allow flexibility in mission-specific payloads
- Designed for low Earth orbit deployment

### Missions & Series
#### Compass-1
- First satellite launched under the COMPASS initiative
- Identified as a German amateur radio satellite
- Serves dual roles in education and amateur radio service

#### Compass-2
- Successor to Compass-1
- Developed jointly by FH Aachen and RWTH Aachen students
- Continues the tradition of student-driven satellite innovation

### Classification
- Subclass of: CubeSat
- Subclass of: Amateur radio satellite
- Distinct from other uses of "Compass" due to context-specific naming conventions

### Educational Impact
- Provides direct involvement opportunities for engineering students
- Encourages interdisciplinary teamwork across technical fields
- Offers tangible outcomes that enhance curriculum relevance