# Formosat-5

> Earth observation satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q15915007](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q15915007)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Formosat-5)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/formosat-5

## Summary
Formosat-5 is a Taiwanese Earth observation satellite designed to observe Earth from orbit. Launched in 2017, it is the first satellite of its kind to be both manufactured and operated by the Taiwan Space Agency, serving as the direct successor to the FORMOSAT-2 mission.

## Key Facts
- **Classification:** Earth observation satellite
- **Operator and Manufacturer:** Taiwan Space Agency
- **Launch Date:** August 24, 2017, at 18:51
- **Launch Vehicle:** SpaceX Falcon 9 Full Thrust (Booster B1038)
- **Launch Site:** Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 4 East
- **Mass:** 475 kilograms
- **Orbital Inclination:** 98.28 degrees
- **Preceded by:** FORMOSAT-2
- **Identification Codes:** COSPAR ID 2017-049A; SCN 42920

## FAQs
### Q: What is the primary purpose of Formosat-5?
A: Formosat-5 is an Earth observation satellite used to monitor the planet from orbit. It provides remote sensing data and continues the mission objectives previously carried out by FORMOSAT-2.

### Q: Who built and manages Formosat-5?
A: The satellite was manufactured and is currently operated by the Taiwan Space Agency. It represents a significant domestic achievement for Taiwan's aerospace industry.

### Q: How was Formosat-5 placed into orbit?
A: It was launched on August 24, 2017, from Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 4 East. The launch utilized a SpaceX Falcon 9 Full Thrust rocket, specifically using booster B1038.

## Why It Matters
Formosat-5 is a critical asset for Taiwan's space program, marking a transition toward domestic satellite manufacturing and operation. By succeeding FORMOSAT-2, it ensures the continuity of essential Earth observation data used for environmental monitoring and other remote sensing applications. Its successful deployment via the Falcon 9 Full Thrust launch vehicle highlights Taiwan's role in the international space community and its ability to manage complex orbital missions. With a mass of 475 kg and a specific orbital inclination of 98.28 degrees, the satellite is positioned to provide consistent coverage and data collection, supporting scientific research and national infrastructure needs.

## Notable For
- **Domestic Production:** It is the first Earth observation satellite manufactured directly by the Taiwan Space Agency.
- **Mission Continuity:** Serves as the official successor to the FORMOSAT-2 satellite mission.
- **SpaceX Partnership:** Launched using the third major version of the SpaceX Falcon 9 (Full Thrust) from the Vandenberg launch site.
- **Global Identification:** Recognized internationally under COSPAR ID 2017-049A and Satellite Catalog Number 42920.

## Body

### Mission and Development
Formosat-5, also known as Formosa Satellite 5 (福卫五号), is an artificial satellite categorized as an Earth observation satellite. It was developed to replace the aging FORMOSAT-2. Unlike its predecessor, Formosat-5 was manufactured by the Taiwan Space Agency, which also serves as the primary operator for the mission.

### Technical Specifications
The satellite has a total mass of 475 kilograms. It operates in an orbit with an inclination of 98.28 degrees. Technical tracking and identification are managed through the following identifiers:
*   **COSPAR ID:** 2017-049A
*   **SCN (Satellite Catalog Number):** 42920
*   **Wolfram Language Code:** Entity["Satellite", "42920"]

### Launch History
The launch of Formosat-5 was a significant event that took place on August 24, 2017.
*   **Launch Time:** 18:51
*   **Launch Vehicle:** Falcon 9 Full Thrust (Booster B1038)
*   **Launch Location:** Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 4 East
*   **Event Classification:** Rocket launch

### Digital Presence and Documentation
The mission is documented through various official channels:
*   **Official Website:** Hosted by the Taiwan Space Agency (formerly NSPO).
*   **Wikipedia Presence:** The entity is documented in 10 languages, including English, Chinese, French, and Russian.
*   **Commons Category:** FORMOSAT-5.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report