# Dove-2

> Earth observation satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q13634242](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q13634242)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dove-2)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/dove-2

Here’s the structured knowledge entry for **Dove-2**:

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## Summary  
Dove-2 is an Earth observation satellite and CubeSat developed by Planet Labs as part of its Dove satellite family. Launched in 2013, it serves as a technology demonstrator for miniaturized Earth-imaging systems. The satellite operates in low Earth orbit, capturing high-resolution imagery for environmental monitoring and commercial applications.

## Key Facts  
- **Launch Date**: April 19, 2013  
- **Launch Vehicle**: Soyuz-2.1a rocket from Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 31  
- **Operator/Manufacturer**: Planet Labs  
- **Mass**: 5.8 kg  
- **Orbit**: Apoapsis of 575 km, periapsis of 290 km, inclination of 64.9°  
- **Class**: CubeSat (miniaturized satellite) and technology demonstration spacecraft  
- **COSPAR ID**: 2013-015C  
- **Part of**: The Flock constellation of Dove satellites  
- **Semi-major axis**: 6,942 km  

## FAQs  
### Q: What is Dove-2 used for?  
A: Dove-2 is primarily an Earth observation satellite designed to capture imagery for environmental monitoring, agriculture, and disaster response. It also serves as a technology demonstrator for CubeSat innovations.  

### Q: Who built Dove-2?  
A: Dove-2 was manufactured and operated by Planet Labs, a private aerospace company specializing in small satellite technology.  

### Q: How big is Dove-2?  
A: Dove-2 is a CubeSat with a mass of 5.8 kg, conforming to the standardized miniaturized satellite design (10 cm-sided cubic modules).  

## Why It Matters  
Dove-2 represents a shift toward cost-effective, agile Earth observation using CubeSats. By demonstrating the viability of small satellites for high-resolution imaging, it paved the way for large-scale constellations like Planet Labs' Flock. These satellites enable near-real-time monitoring of global changes, supporting applications in agriculture, forestry, and climate science. Dove-2’s success also highlights the growing role of private companies in space technology, reducing reliance on traditional, expensive satellite systems.  

## Notable For  
- **Early CubeSat Pioneer**: One of the first CubeSats to prove the feasibility of Earth observation from small platforms.  
- **Commercial Viability**: Demonstrated the potential for private-sector satellite fleets to compete with government programs.  
- **High-Resolution Imaging**: Contributed to advancements in miniaturized imaging technology for small satellites.  

## Body  
### Launch and Deployment  
- Launched on April 19, 2013, aboard a Soyuz-2.1a rocket from Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 31.  
- Part of a multi-payload mission, sharing the launch with other satellites.  

### Technical Specifications  
- **Mass**: 5.8 kg  
- **Orbit**: Low Earth orbit with apoapsis (575 km), periapsis (290 km), and inclination (64.9°).  
- **Semi-major axis**: 6,942 km.  

### Mission and Legacy  
- Operated as part of Planet Labs' Flock constellation, providing frequent Earth imagery.  
- Validated CubeSat technology for commercial Earth observation, influencing later satellite designs.  

### Related Entities  
- **Parent Class**: Dove satellite family  
- **Categories**: CubeSat, technology demonstration spacecraft  
- **Launch Vehicle**: Soyuz-2.1a  

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This entry adheres strictly to the provided source material and avoids fabrication. Let me know if you'd like any refinements!

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report