# Delfi-C3

> Dutch CubeSat satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q49504](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q49504)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Delfi-C3)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/delfi-c3

## Summary
Delfi-C3 is a Dutch CubeSat satellite developed by Delft University of Technology, launched on April 28, 2008, as a technology demonstration spacecraft. It is a miniaturized satellite made up of 10cm-sided cubic modules, designed to test experimental technologies in space.

## Key Facts
- **Class**: Technology demonstration spacecraft and CubeSat.
- **Operator**: Delft University of Technology.
- **Launch Date**: April 28, 2008.
- **Launch Vehicle**: Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV).
- **Launch Site**: Satish Dhawan Space Centre Second Launch Pad.
- **COSPAR ID**: 2008-021G.
- **Dimensions**: 10cm-sided cubic modules (standard for CubeSats).
- **Significant Event**: Rocket launch on April 28, 2008, from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre Second Launch Pad.

## FAQs
### Q: What was Delfi-C3's primary purpose?
A: Delfi-C3 was a technology demonstration spacecraft designed to test experimental technologies in space, specifically as part of the CubeSat platform.

### Q: Who operated Delfi-C3?
A: Delfi-C3 was operated by Delft University of Technology, a Dutch research institution.

### Q: What type of satellite was Delfi-C3?
A: Delfi-C3 was a CubeSat, a miniaturized satellite made up of 10cm-sided cubic modules.

### Q: When and where was Delfi-C3 launched?
A: Delfi-C3 was launched on April 28, 2008, from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre Second Launch Pad using the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV).

### Q: What was Delfi-C3's COSPAR ID?
A: Delfi-C3's COSPAR ID is 2008-021G.

## Why It Matters
Delfi-C3 played a crucial role in advancing CubeSat technology, which has since become a popular platform for space research and education. As a technology demonstration spacecraft, it helped validate new technologies in a compact, cost-effective satellite format. Its successful launch and operation contributed to the broader adoption of CubeSats for scientific and educational missions. The satellite's development by Delft University of Technology also demonstrated the potential for universities and research institutions to contribute to space exploration through innovative satellite designs.

## Notable For
- **First of its kind**: One of the earliest CubeSats launched, demonstrating the feasibility of miniaturized satellites for space research.
- **Technology testing**: Served as a platform to test experimental technologies in space.
- **Educational impact**: Developed by Delft University of Technology, it highlighted the role of academic institutions in space exploration.
- **Compact design**: Standardized CubeSat dimensions (10cm-sided cubes) made it a model for future small satellites.
- **International collaboration**: Launched via the Indian Space Research Organisation's Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle, showcasing cross-border space cooperation.

## Body
### Overview
Delfi-C3 is a Dutch CubeSat satellite developed by Delft University of Technology. It was launched on April 28, 2008, aboard the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre Second Launch Pad. The satellite is classified as both a technology demonstration spacecraft and a CubeSat, a type of miniaturized satellite made up of 10cm-sided cubic modules.

### Design and Technology
Delfi-C3 adheres to the CubeSat standard, featuring a compact design with dimensions of 10cm per side. Its primary purpose was to serve as a platform for testing experimental technologies in space. The satellite's development was part of a broader effort to advance CubeSat technology, which has since become a popular choice for space research and education.

### Launch and Operation
The satellite was launched on April 28, 2008, as part of a rocket launch event from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre Second Launch Pad. The launch was facilitated by the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), an expendable launch system developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation. Delfi-C3's COSPAR ID is 2008-021G, indicating its official identification in the international satellite registry.

### Significance
Delfi-C3's significance lies in its role as a pioneer in CubeSat technology. It demonstrated the potential of miniaturized satellites for space research and education, contributing to the broader adoption of CubeSats in scientific and academic missions. The satellite's development by Delft University of Technology also highlighted the growing involvement of universities and research institutions in space exploration.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report