# Dark Matter Particle Explorer

> Chinese scientific satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q21775017](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q21775017)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dark_Matter_Particle_Explorer)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/dark-matter-particle-explorer

## Summary
The Dark Matter Particle Explorer (DAMPE) is a Chinese scientific satellite launched in 2015 to study dark matter and cosmic rays. It is the first space telescope of its kind in China and operates in a sun-synchronous orbit.

## Key Facts
- **Classifications**: Artificial satellite and space telescope
- **Launch Date**: December 17, 2015, at 00:12 UTC
- **Launch Site**: Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center
- **Launch Vehicle**: Long March 2D
- **Orbit**: Sun-synchronous orbit
- **Nickname**: "Wukong" (after the Monkey King from Chinese mythology)
- **Aliases**: DAMPE, 暗物质粒子探测卫星
- **Website**: [http://www.pmo.cas.cn/dampe/](http://www.pmo.cas.cn/dampe/)
- **COSPAR ID**: 2015-078A
- **NSSDCA ID**: 2015-078A

## FAQs
### Q: What is the purpose of the Dark Matter Particle Explorer?
A: The Dark Matter Particle Explorer (DAMPE) is designed to detect high-energy particles, including dark matter and cosmic rays, to study their origins and properties.

### Q: Who launched the Dark Matter Particle Explorer?
A: The Dark Matter Particle Explorer was launched by China, using a Long March 2D rocket from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center.

### Q: What is the significance of the "Wukong" nickname?
A: The nickname "Wukong" is derived from the Monkey King, a legendary figure in Chinese mythology, symbolizing the satellite's mission to explore the unknown.

### Q: How does DAMPE differ from other space telescopes?
A: DAMPE is the first space telescope of its kind in China, specializing in detecting high-energy particles to study dark matter and cosmic rays.

### Q: What are the key achievements of the Dark Matter Particle Explorer?
A: DAMPE has made significant contributions to the study of dark matter and cosmic rays, providing new insights into their properties and origins.

## Why It Matters
The Dark Matter Particle Explorer plays a crucial role in advancing our understanding of dark matter and cosmic rays. By detecting high-energy particles, it helps scientists unravel the mysteries of the universe, including the nature of dark matter and the origins of cosmic rays. Its findings contribute to fundamental physics and astrophysics, potentially revolutionizing our knowledge of the cosmos. As the first space telescope of its kind in China, DAMPE demonstrates the country's growing capabilities in space exploration and scientific research. Its discoveries have the potential to reshape our understanding of the universe and inspire future missions in particle astrophysics.

## Notable For
- **First Chinese Space Telescope**: DAMPE is the first space telescope of its kind in China, specializing in high-energy particle detection.
- **Dark Matter Research**: It has made significant contributions to the study of dark matter and cosmic rays.
- **Sun-Synchronous Orbit**: Operates in a sun-synchronous orbit, ensuring consistent observational conditions.
- **Monkey King Nickname**: Named after the Monkey King, symbolizing its mission to explore the unknown.
- **High-Energy Particle Detection**: Equipped with advanced instruments to detect and analyze high-energy particles.

## Body
### Mission Overview
The Dark Matter Particle Explorer (DAMPE) is a Chinese scientific satellite launched on December 17, 2015, from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center using a Long March 2D rocket. It is designed to study high-energy particles, including dark matter and cosmic rays, to understand their origins and properties.

### Technical Specifications
- **Orbit**: Sun-synchronous orbit
- **Instruments**: Equipped with advanced detectors to measure high-energy particles
- **Nickname**: "Wukong," referencing the Monkey King from Chinese mythology

### Scientific Contributions
DAMPE has made significant contributions to the study of dark matter and cosmic rays. Its findings have provided new insights into the nature of these phenomena, advancing our understanding of the universe.

### Cultural Significance
The nickname "Wukong" symbolizes the satellite's mission to explore the unknown, drawing inspiration from the legendary Monkey King. This cultural reference highlights the satellite's role in pushing the boundaries of scientific discovery.

### Future Implications
As the first space telescope of its kind in China, DAMPE demonstrates the country's growing capabilities in space exploration and scientific research. Its discoveries have the potential to reshape our understanding of the universe and inspire future missions in particle astrophysics.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report