# ISTSat-1

> Portuguese nanosatellite

**Wikidata**: [Q125421747](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q125421747)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISTSat-1)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/istsat-1

## Summary
ISTSat-1 is a Portuguese nanosatellite developed by the Instituto Superior Técnico (IST) as a technology demonstration spacecraft. Launched on July 9, 2024, aboard an Ariane 62 rocket, it is a CubeSat measuring 10 cm per side and weighing 2 kilograms. The satellite serves as a platform to test experimental technologies in space.

## Key Facts
- **Class**: Technology demonstration spacecraft and CubeSat
- **Mass**: 2 kilograms
- **Developer**: Instituto Superior Técnico (IST)
- **Operator**: Instituto Superior Técnico (IST)
- **Launch Date**: July 9, 2024, at 19:00 UTC
- **Launch Vehicle**: Ariane 62 (flight VA262)
- **Launch Site**: ELA-4 (European Spaceport, French Guiana)
- **Country of Origin**: Portugal
- **Satellite Number (SCN)**: 60238
- **COSPAR ID**: 2024-128D
- **Volume**: 1 CubeSat unit (10 cm × 10 cm × 10 cm)
- **Space Tug**: ULPM H30 (L6001)

## FAQs
### Q: What is ISTSat-1, and what is its purpose?
A: ISTSat-1 is a Portuguese nanosatellite developed by the Instituto Superior Técnico (IST) to demonstrate experimental technologies in space. It is a CubeSat designed for technology testing and educational purposes.

### Q: Who developed ISTSat-1, and when was it launched?
A: ISTSat-1 was developed by the Instituto Superior Técnico (IST) and launched on July 9, 2024, aboard an Ariane 62 rocket from ELA-4 in French Guiana.

### Q: What type of satellite is ISTSat-1?
A: ISTSat-1 is a CubeSat, a miniaturized satellite made up of 10 cm-sided cubic modules, and it is classified as a technology demonstration spacecraft.

### Q: What is the mass and size of ISTSat-1?
A: ISTSat-1 has a mass of 2 kilograms and measures 10 cm per side, making it a 1-unit CubeSat.

### Q: What launch vehicle and flight number was used for ISTSat-1?
A: ISTSat-1 was launched on an Ariane 62 rocket under flight number VA262 from ELA-4 in French Guiana.

## Why It Matters
ISTSat-1 represents a significant milestone for Portugal’s space capabilities, as it is the country’s first dedicated technology demonstration satellite. Developed by the Instituto Superior Técnico (IST), the satellite serves as a platform for testing experimental technologies in space, contributing to Portugal’s growing presence in the global space sector. Its successful launch and operation demonstrate the country’s ability to design, build, and operate advanced nanosatellites, fostering innovation and education in space technology. By participating in the Fly Your Satellite! program, ISTSat-1 also supports the European Space Agency’s (ESA) efforts to promote CubeSat development and space education.

## Notable For
- **First Portuguese Technology Demonstration Satellite**: ISTSat-1 is Portugal’s first dedicated technology demonstration spacecraft, marking a key step in the country’s space program.
- **CubeSat Design**: As a 1-unit CubeSat, it adheres to standardized miniaturized satellite specifications, making it cost-effective and accessible for educational and research purposes.
- **Ariane 62 Launch**: The satellite was launched aboard an Ariane 62 rocket, showcasing its reliability and capability for small satellite deployments.
- **Fly Your Satellite! Program**: ISTSat-1 is part of the ESA’s Fly Your Satellite! initiative, which encourages student-led CubeSat projects and technology demonstrations.
- **IST Collaboration**: Developed by the Instituto Superior Técnico, the satellite highlights the institution’s role in advancing space technology and education in Portugal.

## Body
### Overview
ISTSat-1 is a Portuguese nanosatellite developed by the Instituto Superior Técnico (IST) as part of the European Space Agency’s (ESA) Fly Your Satellite! program. The satellite serves as a technology demonstration platform, allowing for the testing of experimental technologies in space. Launched on July 9, 2024, aboard an Ariane 62 rocket from ELA-4 in French Guiana, ISTSat-1 is a 1-unit CubeSat, measuring 10 cm per side and weighing 2 kilograms.

### Development and Launch
The satellite was developed by the Instituto Superior Técnico, with the project led by IST students and researchers. It was launched as part of the ESA’s Fly Your Satellite! program, which supports student-led CubeSat projects. The launch occurred on July 9, 2024, at 19:00 UTC, aboard an Ariane 62 rocket under flight number VA262. The satellite was deployed into orbit from the European Spaceport in French Guiana.

### Technical Specifications
ISTSat-1 is a 1-unit CubeSat, meaning it has a volume of 1 liter and measures 10 cm per side. Its mass is 2 kilograms, making it a lightweight and compact satellite. The satellite is equipped with experimental payloads designed to test new technologies in space. It also utilizes the ULPM H30 space tug (L6001) for deployment and orbital operations.

### Significance
ISTSat-1 is notable for being Portugal’s first dedicated technology demonstration satellite. Its development and launch contribute to the country’s growing space capabilities and highlight the role of educational institutions in advancing space technology. The satellite’s participation in the Fly Your Satellite! program underscores the importance of student-led projects in fostering innovation and collaboration within the space sector.

## References

1. [Source](https://space.skyrocket.de/doc_sdat/istsat-1.htm)
2. [Meet the team: ISTsat-1](https://www.esa.int/Education/CubeSats_-_Fly_Your_Satellite/Meet_the_team_ISTsat-1)
3. SATCAT
4. [Source](https://nextspaceflight.com/launches/details/444)
5. Jonathan's Space Report