# Kyokko

> Japanese research satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q3200967](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q3200967)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/kyokko

## Summary
Kyokko, also known as EXOS-A, was a Japanese research satellite launched in 1978 to study Earth's magnetosphere as part of the EXOS program and the International Magnetospheric Study. Operated by the Institute of Space and Astronautical Science (ISAS), it contributed to understanding space weather and solar-terrestrial interactions.

## Key Facts
- **Launch Date**: February 4, 1978, at 07:00 UTC.
- **Operator**: Institute of Space and Astronautical Science (ISAS), Japan.
- **Mission**: Part of the EXOS program and the International Magnetospheric Study.
- **Mass**: 126 kilograms.
- **Diameter**: 0.946 meters.
- **Launch Vehicle**: M-3H (M-3H-2 configuration) from Uchinoura Space Center.
- **COSPAR ID**: 1978-014A.
- **Power Source**: Solar arrays (35 square meters) and nickel-cadmium batteries.
- **Preceded By**: Jikiken satellite.

## FAQs
### Q: When was Kyokko launched?
A: Kyokko was launched on February 4, 1978, at 07:00 UTC from Uchinoura Space Center in Japan.

### Q: What was the purpose of the Kyokko satellite?
A: Kyokko was designed to study Earth's magnetosphere and participate in the International Magnetospheric Study, aiming to improve understanding of solar-terrestrial interactions.

### Q: Who operated the Kyokko mission?
A: The mission was operated by the Institute of Space and Astronautical Science (ISAS), a Japanese national research institute established in 1955.

## Why It Matters
Kyokko played a critical role in advancing scientific knowledge of Earth's magnetosphere and space weather phenomena. As part of the EXOS program and the International Magnetospheric Study, it collaborated with global efforts to map and analyze the dynamic interactions between the solar wind and Earth's magnetic field. This research is essential for protecting satellite technology, communication systems, and power grids from space weather disruptions. Kyokko's mission highlighted Japan's contributions to international space science during the 1970s and laid groundwork for future geomagnetic studies.

## Notable For
- First satellite in Japan's EXOS program dedicated to magnetospheric research.
- Participant in the International Magnetospheric Study (IMS), a global scientific initiative.
- Utilized a combination of solar arrays and nickel-cadmium batteries for power.
- Launched aboard the M-3H rocket, a key vehicle for Japan's early space program.
- Provided critical data on solar-terrestrial interactions and space weather patterns.

## Body
### Launch and Deployment
Kyokko was launched on February 4, 1978, at 07:00 UTC from Uchinoura Space Center in Japan. The satellite was deployed via an M-3H rocket (configuration M-3H-2), marking a significant mission for Japan's space program.

### Design and Instrumentation
- **Mass**: 126 kg.
- **Diameter**: 0.946 meters.
- **Power**: Equipped with 35 square meter solar arrays and nickel-cadmium batteries for energy storage.
- **Instruments**: Designed to monitor geomagnetic fields, plasma, and radiation in Earth's magnetosphere.

### Mission Objectives
Kyokko's primary goal was to investigate the structure and dynamics of Earth's magnetosphere. It operated as part of the International Magnetospheric Study (IMS), a coordinated global effort to explore solar-terrestrial interactions. The satellite collected data on magnetic fields, plasma particles, and solar wind effects.

### Legacy
Kyokko contributed valuable datasets to the IMS, enhancing international scientific collaboration. Its mission supported advancements in space weather forecasting and the protection of satellite infrastructure. The satellite was succeeded by Jikiken, continuing Japan's focus on geomagnetic research.

## Schema Markup
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  "@type": "Thing",
  "name": "Kyokko",
  "description": "Japanese research satellite launched in 1978 to study Earth's magnetosphere.",
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## References

1. [Source](https://space.skyrocket.de/doc_sdat/exos-a.htm)
2. Jonathan's Space Report
3. [Source](https://nssdc.gsfc.nasa.gov/nmc/spacecraft/display.action?id=1978-014A)