# COSMO-SkyMed 3

> Italian reconnaissance satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q9184129](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q9184129)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/cosmo-skymed-3

## Summary  
COSMO-SkyMed 3 is an Italian reconnaissance satellite launched in 2008 as part of the COSMO-SkyMed constellation for Earth observation and intelligence gathering. It uses synthetic aperture radar to capture high-resolution images regardless of weather or lighting conditions. The satellite was manufactured by Alenia Spazio and operated by the Italian Space Agency.

## Key Facts  
- Launched on October 25, 2008, at 02:28:25 UTC from Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2 West  
- Mass: 1,900 kilograms  
- Country of origin: Italy  
- Operator: Italian Space Agency  
- Manufacturer: Alenia Spazio  
- Part of the COSMO-SkyMed program  
- Instance of: reconnaissance satellite, synthetic aperture radar satellite  
- Launch vehicle: Delta II (flight designation D-336)  
- COSPAR ID: 2008-054A  
- Satellite bus: PRIMA  
- Orbit: Sun-synchronous  
- Follows: COSMO-SkyMed 2  
- Followed by: COSMO-SkyMed 4  

## FAQs  
### Q: What is COSMO-SkyMed 3 used for?  
A: COSMO-SkyMed 3 is used for Earth observation and reconnaissance, collecting high-resolution imagery using synthetic aperture radar for both civilian and military purposes.  

### Q: When was COSMO-SkyMed 3 launched?  
A: It was launched on October 25, 2008, at 02:28:25 UTC from Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2 West.  

### Q: Who operates COSMO-SkyMed 3?  
A: The satellite is operated by the Italian Space Agency.  

## Why It Matters  
COSMO-SkyMed 3 plays a critical role in Italy’s national security and Earth observation capabilities. As part of the COSMO-SkyMed constellation, it provides all-weather, day-and-night surveillance through synthetic aperture radar technology. Its data supports disaster monitoring, environmental assessment, and defense operations. The satellite contributes to international collaboration in space-based intelligence and enhances Italy's autonomy in space reconnaissance.

## Notable For  
- Being one of four satellites in the COSMO-SkyMed constellation designed for dual-use (civilian and military) applications  
- Utilizing synthetic aperture radar for high-resolution imaging under any atmospheric condition  
- Employing the PRIMA spacecraft bus, developed specifically for advanced Earth observation missions  
- Launched via the reliable Delta II rocket, marking a key mission in its operational history  

## Body  
### Mission Overview  
COSMO-SkyMed 3 is the third satellite in the COSMO-SkyMed constellation, a system developed by the Italian Space Agency (ASI) for Earth observation and intelligence purposes. Designed for both civilian and military use, the satellite delivers high-resolution imagery using synthetic aperture radar (SAR), enabling surveillance in all weather conditions and at any time of day.

### Technical Specifications  
The satellite has a launch mass of 1,900 kg and is equipped with two spacecraft solar arrays for power generation. It operates in a Sun-synchronous orbit, ensuring consistent illumination for Earth observation tasks. COSMO-SkyMed 3 utilizes the PRIMA spacecraft bus, which was tailored for Earth observation missions requiring high agility and precision.

### Development and Launch  
Manufactured by Alenia Spazio (now Leonardo S.p.A.), COSMO-SkyMed 3 was launched on October 25, 2008, at 02:28:25 UTC. The launch took place at Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2 West using a Delta II rocket (flight designation D-336). The launch was successful and marked the third deployment in the COSMO-SkyMed program.

### Operational Role  
As part of the COSMO-SkyMed constellation, COSMO-SkyMed 3 contributes to continuous Earth monitoring. Its SAR payload enables rapid response during natural disasters, supports environmental research, and provides strategic intelligence for defense applications. The satellite follows COSMO-SkyMed 2 and precedes COSMO-SkyMed 4 in the operational sequence.

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  "@type": "Thing",
  "name": "COSMO-SkyMed 3",
  "description": "Italian reconnaissance satellite launched in 2008 as part of the COSMO-SkyMed constellation.",
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## References

1. [Source](https://space.skyrocket.de/doc_sdat/cosmo-skymed-1.htm)
2. Jonathan's Space Report
3. [Source](https://space.skyrocket.de/doc_sat/alenia_prima.htm)