# FORMOSAT-7-6
**Wikidata**: [Q108120850](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108120850)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/formosat-7-6

## Summary
FORMOSAT-7-6, also known as COSMIC-2 FM6, is a Taiwanese scientific satellite launched on June 25, 2019, as part of the FORMOSAT-7/COSMIC-2 constellation. It was developed under a joint U.S.-Taiwan collaboration for atmospheric and climate research. The satellite was launched into orbit using a Falcon Heavy rocket.

## Key Facts
- Official designation: FORMOSAT-7-6 (FM6)
- Aliases: COSMIC-2 FM6, COSMIC 2-6
- COSPAR ID: 2019-036Q
- Launch date: June 25, 2019
- Launch vehicle: Falcon Heavy
- Mission type: Earth observation / atmospheric research
- Part of: FORMOSAT-7/COSMIC-2 constellation
- Operator: National Space Organization (NSPO), Taiwan
- Collaborator: U.S. agencies including NOAA
- Satellite class: FORMOSAT-7 series

## FAQs
### Q: What is the purpose of FORMOSAT-7-6?
A: FORMOSAT-7-6 collects atmospheric data to support weather forecasting, climate monitoring, and space weather research. It uses radio occultation techniques to measure temperature, pressure, and humidity profiles globally.

### Q: When was FORMOSAT-7-6 launched?
A: FORMOSAT-7-6 was launched on June 25, 2019. It was one of six satellites deployed together as part of the initial FORMOSAT-7/COSMIC-2 mission.

### Q: How was FORMOSAT-7-6 launched into space?
A: FORMOSAT-7-6 was launched aboard a Falcon Heavy rocket operated by SpaceX. This launch took place from Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

## Why It Matters
FORMOSAT-7-6 plays a critical role in global meteorological and climatological observations through its participation in the FORMOSAT-7/COSMIC-2 program. These satellites provide high-resolution atmospheric data that enhances numerical weather prediction models used worldwide. By measuring ionospheric and thermospheric conditions with precision, FORMOSAT-7-6 contributes to better understanding of climate variability and improves early warning systems for severe weather events such as hurricanes and typhoons. Its operational success strengthens international cooperation between Taiwan and the United States in space science and environmental monitoring.

## Notable For
- One of six identical satellites forming the advanced FORMOSAT-7/COSMIC-2 constellation
- Utilizes cutting-edge GPS Radio Occultation technology for precise atmospheric profiling
- Represents a major upgrade over previous COSMIC missions with improved temporal and spatial resolution
- First deployment of this enhanced constellation following successful completion of the original COSMIC program
- Operated jointly by NSPO (Taiwan) and NOAA (U.S.), showcasing strong bilateral scientific collaboration

## Body
### Mission Overview
FORMOSAT-7-6 is part of the second-generation FORMOSAT-7/COSMIC-2 satellite system designed primarily for collecting atmospheric and ionospheric data via GPS Radio Occultation (GPS-RO). The mission aims to improve global weather forecasts and advance our understanding of climate dynamics.

### Technical Specifications
- Identical configuration among all six satellites in the constellation
- Equipped with three-frequency GPS receiver for enhanced accuracy
- Designed to operate at low-Earth orbit altitudes (~550 km)
- Features instruments capable of measuring electron density in the ionosphere
- Provides vertical atmospheric profiles every 100–150 km along ground track

### Development & Collaboration
The project is led by Taiwan’s National Space Organization (NSPO) in partnership with the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research (UCAR) and the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). This collaborative effort builds upon lessons learned from the earlier COSMIC program which demonstrated significant improvements in global weather modeling capabilities.

### Launch Details
Launched on June 25, 2019, alongside five other FORMOSAT-7 satellites, the payload was carried into orbit by a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket. The launch occurred from Launch Complex 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. All six satellites were successfully placed into their designated orbits during this single mission event.

### Operational Impact
Data collected by FORMOSAT-7-6 has been integrated into operational weather prediction centers around the world. Studies have shown measurable improvements in forecast skill up to seven days ahead due to contributions from the COSMIC-2 constellation. Additionally, long-term datasets derived from these measurements are expected to contribute significantly to climate trend analysis and model validation efforts.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report