# Drag and Atmospheric Neutral Density Explorer

> American technology demonstration satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q5304815](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q5304815)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drag_and_Atmospheric_Neutral_Density_Explorer)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/drag-and-atmospheric-neutral-density-explorer

## Summary
The Drag and Atmospheric Neutral Density Explorer (DANDE) is an American technology demonstration satellite manufactured and operated by the University of Colorado Boulder. Launched in 2013, the spacecraft was designed to test and demonstrate experimental technologies in a space environment.

## Key Facts
- **Classification:** Technology demonstration spacecraft
- **Operator:** University of Colorado Boulder
- **Manufacturer:** University of Colorado Boulder
- **Launch Date:** September 29, 2013 (16:00)
- **Launch Vehicle:** Falcon 9 v1.1 (Booster B1003)
- **Launch Site:** Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 4 East
- **Satellite Catalog Number (SCN):** 39267
- **COSPAR ID:** 2013-055C
- **Mission End Date:** February 8, 2014
- **Country of Origin:** United States

## FAQs
### Q: What was the primary purpose of the DANDE satellite?
A: DANDE was a technology demonstration spacecraft used to test experimental technologies in orbit. It was designed to provide data and demonstrate capabilities related to atmospheric neutral density and satellite drag.

### Q: Who was responsible for the creation and operation of DANDE?
A: The satellite was both manufactured and operated by the University of Colorado Boulder. It served as a project within the university's space grant program.

### Q: Which launch vehicle was used to put DANDE into orbit?
A: DANDE was launched using a SpaceX Falcon 9 v1.1 rocket. Specifically, it was part of the payload for the B1003 booster flight departing from Vandenberg Air Force Base.

### Q: How long did the DANDE mission last?
A: The mission launched on September 29, 2013, and reached its official conclusion on February 8, 2014.

## Why It Matters
The Drag and Atmospheric Neutral Density Explorer (DANDE) represents a significant achievement in university-led space research and technology validation. As a technology demonstration spacecraft, its role was to bridge the gap between experimental concepts and flight-proven hardware. By testing new technologies in the actual environment of space, missions like DANDE help reduce the risks associated with future, larger-scale orbital missions.

The project is also notable for its connection to the University of Colorado Boulder, highlighting the capacity of academic institutions to manage the full lifecycle of a spacecraft, from manufacturing to orbital operations. Furthermore, its launch on the Falcon 9 v1.1 marks its place in the early operational history of SpaceX’s second-generation orbital launch vehicles. The data collected regarding atmospheric neutral density is vital for the aerospace community, as it directly impacts the understanding of satellite drag, which is a critical factor in predicting satellite lifespans and maintaining accurate orbital tracking for space situational awareness.

## Notable For
- **Academic Leadership:** Entirely manufactured and operated by the University of Colorado Boulder rather than a traditional commercial or government aerospace prime contractor.
- **Falcon 9 v1.1 Payload:** One of the early satellites launched by the second version of SpaceX's Falcon 9 orbital launch vehicle.
- **Experimental Platform:** Specifically categorized as a technology demonstration spacecraft, a class dedicated to validating new spaceflight hardware.
- **Public Engagement:** Maintained an active digital presence during its mission via dedicated social media channels and university web portals to share progress.

## Body

### Mission Overview
The Drag and Atmospheric Neutral Density Explorer, frequently referred to by its acronym DANDE, was a technology demonstration mission from the United States. The spacecraft was categorized as a technology demonstration spacecraft, a specific class of vehicles used to test experimental technologies in the space environment.

### Technical Specifications and Identification
DANDE is identified in international tracking systems by the following markers:
- **Satellite Catalog Number (SCN):** 39267
- **COSPAR ID:** 2013-055C
- **Freebase ID:** /m/05f5vlf

The spacecraft was manufactured by the University of Colorado Boulder, which also served as the primary operator throughout the mission's duration.

### Launch and Orbital Deployment
The satellite was launched on September 29, 2013, at 16:00 UTC. The launch took place at the Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 4 East in California. The delivery vehicle for the mission was the Falcon 9 v1.1, the second iteration of SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket family, utilizing the B1003 booster.

### Operational Timeline and Significant Events
The mission history of DANDE is defined by two primary milestones:
- **Rocket Launch:** September 29, 2013, marking the start of its orbital presence.
- **Mission End:** February 8, 2014, marking the conclusion of its active operations.

During its operational life, the mission was supported by various digital platforms, including a website hosted by the University of Colorado Boulder and social media accounts on Twitter and Facebook. The project's Twitter account (@COSGC_DANDE) provided updates on the satellite's status from its inception through the end of the mission.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report
2. [Source](https://twitter.com/COSGC_DANDE/status/474230714938822656)