# Cubesat XI-IV

> Japanese CubeSat

**Wikidata**: [Q16858143](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q16858143)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/cubesat-xi-iv

## Summary
Cubesat XI-IV is a Japanese CubeSat launched in 2003, primarily serving as a technology demonstration spacecraft. It was developed by the University of Tokyo and operated by the same institution, marking an early example of miniaturized satellite technology in Japan.

## Key Facts
- **Type**: Technology demonstration spacecraft and CubeSat (miniaturized satellite made up of 10cm-sided cubic modules)
- **Launch Date**: June 30, 2003, at 14:15:26 UTC from Plesetsk Cosmodrome Site 133
- **Launch Vehicle**: Rokot (Russian space launch vehicle)
- **Mass**: 1 kilogram (launch weight)
- **Operator/Manufacturer**: University of Tokyo
- **Country of Origin**: Japan
- **COSPAR ID**: 2003-031J
- **NSSDCA ID**: 2003-031J
- **Aliases**: XI-IV, OSCAR-57, CubeSat-OSCAR 57, XI-4, CO 57

## FAQs
### Q: What was the primary purpose of Cubesat XI-IV?
A: Cubesat XI-IV was designed as a technology demonstration spacecraft to test experimental technologies in space.

### Q: Who developed and operated Cubesat XI-IV?
A: The satellite was developed and operated by the University of Tokyo, marking an early collaboration between academia and space technology in Japan.

### Q: How was Cubesat XI-IV launched?
A: It was launched on June 30, 2003, aboard a Rokot rocket from Plesetsk Cosmodrome Site 133.

### Q: What are the key identifiers for Cubesat XI-IV?
A: It is identified by COSPAR ID 2003-031J and NSSDCA ID 2003-031J, and it is also known by aliases such as OSCAR-57 and CubeSat-OSCAR 57.

### Q: What is the significance of Cubesat XI-IV in the history of CubeSats?
A: As one of the earliest Japanese CubeSats, it contributed to the development of miniaturized satellite technology and demonstrated Japan's growing role in the CubeSat community.

## Why It Matters
Cubesat XI-IV holds historical significance as an early example of Japan's involvement in CubeSat technology. Launched in 2003, it was developed by the University of Tokyo and served as a technology demonstration spacecraft. This mission marked a pivotal moment in Japan's space exploration efforts, showcasing the country's capability to contribute to the growing field of CubeSats. By testing experimental technologies in space, XI-IV helped advance the miniaturization of satellite systems, paving the way for future innovations in space research and satellite deployment. Its success demonstrated the potential of CubeSats as cost-effective tools for scientific and technological experimentation, solidifying Japan's position in the global space community.

## Notable For
- **Early Japanese CubeSat**: One of the first CubeSats developed and operated by Japan, contributing to the country's growing presence in the CubeSat community.
- **Technology Demonstration**: Designed to test experimental technologies, it played a role in advancing miniaturized satellite systems.
- **Academic Collaboration**: Developed by the University of Tokyo, it highlighted the institution's role in pioneering space technology.
- **Miniaturization**: As a CubeSat, it represented the trend of reducing satellite size while maintaining functionality.
- **Historical Milestone**: Launched in 2003, it marked an early achievement in Japan's space exploration efforts.

## Body
### Overview
Cubesat XI-IV, also known as OSCAR-57 and CubeSat-OSCAR 57, is a Japanese CubeSat developed and operated by the University of Tokyo. It was launched on June 30, 2003, aboard a Rokot rocket from Plesetsk Cosmodrome Site 133. The satellite was part of the OSCAR series and served as a technology demonstration spacecraft.

### Design and Specifications
XI-IV is a CubeSat, a type of miniaturized satellite composed of 10cm-sided cubic modules. It had a launch mass of 1 kilogram. The satellite was designed to test experimental technologies in space, contributing to the advancement of miniaturized satellite systems.

### Launch and Operation
The launch of XI-IV took place on June 30, 2003, at 14:15:26 UTC. The satellite was deployed using a Rokot launch vehicle, which is a series of Russian space launch vehicles. The University of Tokyo was responsible for both the development and operation of the satellite.

### Identification and Classification
XI-IV is identified by several identifiers, including COSPAR ID 2003-031J and NSSDCA ID 2003-031J. It is also known by aliases such as XI-IV, OSCAR-57, CubeSat-OSCAR 57, XI-4, and CO 57. The satellite is classified as both a CubeSat and a technology demonstration spacecraft.

### Historical Context
As one of the earliest Japanese CubeSats, XI-IV played a significant role in Japan's space exploration efforts. Its development and operation by the University of Tokyo highlighted the institution's contributions to the field of space technology. The mission demonstrated the potential of CubeSats as cost-effective tools for scientific and technological experimentation, solidifying Japan's position in the global space community.

## References

1. [Source](https://space.skyrocket.de/doc_sdat/xi-4.htm)
2. Jonathan's Space Report