# Horyu 2

> Japanese small technology demonstration satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q11675311](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q11675311)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/horyu-2

## Summary
Horyu 2 is a small Japanese technology demonstration satellite developed and operated by the Kyushu Institute of Technology. Launched in 2012, it is a nanosatellite weighing 7 kg, designed to test experimental technologies in space.

## Key Facts
- **Type**: Technology demonstration spacecraft and nanosatellite (mass < 10 kg).
- **Mass**: 7 kg.
- **Launch Date**: May 17, 2012, at 16:39 UTC.
- **Operator/Manufacturer**: Kyushu Institute of Technology (Japan).
- **Launch Vehicle**: H-IIA (H-IIA-21 variant).
- **Orbit**: Sun-synchronous orbit.
- **COSPAR ID**: 2012-025D.
- **Aliases**: Horyu II.

## FAQs
### Q: What is the purpose of Horyu 2?
A: Horyu 2 is a technology demonstration satellite designed to test experimental technologies in space, particularly in the nanosatellite category.

### Q: Who built and operates Horyu 2?
A: The Kyushu Institute of Technology in Japan developed, manufactured, and operates Horyu 2.

### Q: When was Horyu 2 launched?
A: Horyu 2 was launched on May 17, 2012, at 16:39 UTC.

### Q: What rocket launched Horyu 2?
A: It was launched using the H-IIA rocket (H-IIA-21 variant) from the Yoshinobu Launch Complex Launch Pad 1.

### Q: How much does Horyu 2 weigh?
A: Horyu 2 has a mass of 7 kg, classifying it as a nanosatellite.

## Why It Matters
Horyu 2 represents an important step in the development of small satellite technology, particularly in Japan. As a nanosatellite, it demonstrates the feasibility of conducting meaningful space-based experiments with minimal mass and cost. Technology demonstration missions like Horyu 2 pave the way for future advancements in satellite miniaturization, which can reduce the barriers to entry for space research and commercial applications. By testing experimental technologies in orbit, Horyu 2 contributes to the broader goals of improving satellite performance, reliability, and functionality. Its successful operation also highlights the capabilities of academic institutions like the Kyushu Institute of Technology in advancing space technology.

## Notable For
- Being a nanosatellite (7 kg), showcasing the potential of miniaturized satellites.
- Serving as a technology demonstration platform for experimental space technologies.
- Launched aboard the H-IIA rocket, a reliable Japanese launch vehicle.
- Operated by an academic institution, the Kyushu Institute of Technology, demonstrating university-led space research.
- Part of Japan's contributions to the field of small satellite development.

## Body
### Overview
Horyu 2 is a Japanese nanosatellite classified as a technology demonstration spacecraft. It was designed to test and validate experimental technologies in a space environment.

### Development and Operation
- **Developer/Operator**: Kyushu Institute of Technology, a higher education institution based in Kitakyushu, Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan.
- **Manufacturer**: Kyushu Institute of Technology.

### Technical Specifications
- **Mass**: 7 kg, placing it in the nanosatellite category.
- **Orbit**: Sun-synchronous orbit, which is commonly used for Earth observation and scientific missions.
- **COSPAR ID**: 2012-025D, a unique identifier assigned to the satellite.

### Launch Details
- **Launch Date**: May 17, 2012, at 16:39 UTC.
- **Launch Vehicle**: H-IIA (H-IIA-21 variant), a Japanese medium-lift launch vehicle.
- **Launch Site**: Yoshinobu Launch Complex Launch Pad 1.

### Mission and Significance
Horyu 2's primary mission is to demonstrate new technologies in space. As a nanosatellite, it exemplifies the trend toward smaller, more cost-effective satellites that can perform a variety of tasks. The mission is significant for its role in advancing satellite technology and for being operated by an academic institution, showcasing the capabilities of universities in space research.

## Schema Markup
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  "@type": "Thing",
  "name": "Horyu 2",
  "description": "Japanese small technology demonstration satellite",
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## References

1. [Source](https://space.skyrocket.de/doc_sdat/horyu-2.htm)
2. Jonathan's Space Report