# LilacSat 1

> amateur radio satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q31841181](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q31841181)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/lilacsat-1

## Summary
LilacSat 1, also known by its alias LO-90, is an amateur radio satellite classified as a CubeSat. It was launched into orbit on April 18, 2017, utilizing an Atlas V 401 launch vehicle provided by United Launch Alliance.

## Key Facts
- **Alternative Name:** LO-90
- **Classification:** CubeSat (miniaturized satellite using 10cm-sided cubic modules)
- **Launch Date:** April 18, 2017
- **Launch Vehicle:** Atlas V 401 (United Launch Alliance)
- **Satellite Catalog Number (SCN):** 42725
- **COSPAR ID:** 1998-067ME
- **Primary Function:** Amateur radio communications
- **Instance Of:** Artificial satellite / CubeSat

## FAQs
### Q: What is LilacSat 1?
A: LilacSat 1 is a miniaturized amateur radio satellite that belongs to the CubeSat class of spacecraft. It is frequently referred to by its amateur radio designation, LO-90.

### Q: When and how was LilacSat 1 launched?
A: The satellite was launched on April 18, 2017. It reached space aboard an Atlas V 401 rocket, which is a launch vehicle operated by United Launch Alliance.

### Q: How is LilacSat 1 identified in satellite databases?
A: It is tracked in the Satellite Catalog under the number 42725 and is assigned the international COSPAR ID 1998-067ME. In technical computing environments like the Wolfram Language, it is identified as Entity["Satellite", "42725"].

## Why It Matters
LilacSat 1 represents a significant contribution to the field of amateur radio and miniaturized satellite technology. As a CubeSat, it adheres to a standardized design of 10cm-sided cubic modules, a class of spacecraft that has revolutionized access to space for research and community-led projects. The satellite, also known as LO-90, serves as a platform for amateur radio communications, allowing for global interaction and technical experimentation within the radio community. 

Its launch on April 18, 2017, via the Atlas V 401 launch vehicle, highlights the integration of small-scale research satellites into major commercial and scientific launch manifests. By successfully reaching orbit and receiving official designations like SCN 42725 and COSPAR ID 1998-067ME, LilacSat 1 provides a verifiable platform for orbital tracking and radio frequency testing. This satellite is important because it demonstrates the viability of the CubeSat class in performing specialized communication tasks while utilizing established launch infrastructure. It serves as a bridge between professional aerospace engineering and the amateur radio community, fostering a deeper understanding of satellite operations and orbital mechanics.

## Notable For
- **Amateur Radio Designation:** Recognized globally within the radio community as LO-90.
- **Standardized Design:** Built using the CubeSat format, featuring 10cm-sided cubic modules.
- **Major Launch Integration:** Successfully deployed using a United Launch Alliance Atlas V 401 rocket.
- **Official Tracking:** Maintains a documented presence in international registries with SCN 42725 and COSPAR ID 1998-067ME.

## Body

### Classification and Design
LilacSat 1 is categorized as a CubeSat. This class of miniaturized satellites is defined by its modular design, where each unit consists of a 10cm x 10cm x 10cm cube. This standardized form factor allows for simplified manufacturing and deployment processes.

### Launch and Orbital History
The satellite's primary significant event was its rocket launch on April 18, 2017. It was launched as a secondary payload or part of a multi-satellite mission.
- **Launch Vehicle:** Atlas V 401
- **Provider:** United Launch Alliance (ULA)
- **Launch Date:** 2017-04-18

### Technical Identifiers
LilacSat 1 is cataloged under several international and technical systems to facilitate tracking and communication:
- **SCN:** 42725 (Satellite Catalog Number)
- **COSPAR ID:** 1998-067ME
- **Alias:** LO-90
- **Google Knowledge Graph ID:** /g/11g8vxsx2t
- **Wolfram Language Entity Code:** Entity["Satellite", "42725"]

### Related Entities
The satellite is closely associated with the CubeSat class of spacecraft and the Atlas V 401 launch vehicle. While the CubeSat class is widely represented in global satellite databases, the Atlas V 401 is a specific configuration of the United Launch Alliance's launch fleet used to deliver the satellite to its intended orbit.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report