# Dodecapole 2
**Wikidata**: [Q16944958](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q16944958)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/dodecapole-2

## Summary  
Dodecapole 2 is a technology demonstration spacecraft launched by the United States on August 13, 1965. It was designed to test experimental technologies in space and was launched from Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2 using a Thor-Ablestar rocket. Its COSPAR ID is 1965-065C, and it is cataloged under the Satellite Catalog Number 01510.

## Key Facts  
- Launched on August 13, 1965  
- Launched from Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2  
- Launch vehicle: Thor-Ablestar  
- Instance of: Technology demonstration spacecraft  
- COSPAR ID: 1965-065C  
- SCN (Satellite Catalog Number): 01510  
- Significant event: Rocket launch on August 13, 1965 at Vandenberg SLC-2  
- Related classes: Technology demonstration spacecraft, Thor-Ablestar  
- Wikipedia languages: Galician (gl), Polish (pl)  
- Wolfram Language Entity Code: Entity["Satellite", "01510"]

## FAQs  
### Q: What was the purpose of Dodecapole 2?  
A: Dodecapole 2 was a technology demonstration spacecraft intended to test experimental technologies in space.  

### Q: When was Dodecapole 2 launched?  
A: Dodecapole 2 was launched on August 13, 1965.  

### Q: What rocket was used to launch Dodecapole 2?  
A: The spacecraft was launched using a Thor-Ablestar expendable launch system.  

## Why It Matters  
Dodecapole 2 represents an early example of dedicated technology demonstration missions in the U.S. space program. These types of missions are crucial for validating new systems and techniques before they are incorporated into operational spacecraft. As part of the broader effort to advance space capabilities during the 1960s, Dodecapole 2 contributed to the development of reliable satellite technologies and launch procedures. Though limited in public documentation, its role in experimental aerospace testing underscores the iterative nature of space innovation during the Cold War era.

## Notable For  
- Being a technology demonstration spacecraft from the mid-1960s  
- Launching on a Thor-Ablestar rocket, a key American launch vehicle of its time  
- Having a unique Satellite Catalog Number (01510) and COSPAR ID (1965-065C)  
- Representing early efforts in experimental satellite deployment from Vandenberg Air Force Base  

## Body  
### Mission Overview  
Dodecapole 2 was launched on August 13, 1965, with the primary objective of demonstrating new space technologies. The mission was part of a broader initiative to improve spacecraft reliability and performance through practical orbital tests.

### Launch Details  
The spacecraft lifted off from Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2, a key site for polar orbit launches. It was carried into orbit by a Thor-Ablestar rocket, an American expendable launch system commonly used during the 1960s for scientific and military payloads.

### Classification and Identification  
Dodecapole 2 is classified as a technology demonstration spacecraft. It has been assigned the following identifiers:
- **COSPAR ID**: 1965-065C  
- **Satellite Catalog Number (SCN)**: 01510  

These identifiers are used in space tracking databases and academic references to uniquely catalog the object.

### Technical Context  
As a technology demonstrator, Dodecapole 2 likely tested subsystems or experimental equipment critical to future missions. While detailed technical outcomes are not widely documented, such missions typically evaluate components like power systems, attitude control mechanisms, or communication modules.

### Legacy  
Though not widely referenced in modern discourse, Dodecapole 2 contributes to the historical record of early U.S. spaceflight efforts. It exemplifies the methodical approach taken by aerospace programs to refine technologies through dedicated test flights.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report