# Lituanica SAT-2

> 3U Lithuanian CubeSat satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q23796152](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q23796152)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LituanicaSAT-2)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/lituanica-sat-2

## Summary
Lituanica SAT-2 is a 3U CubeSat satellite developed by Lithuania, launched on June 23, 2017, aboard India's Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle-XL (PSLV-XL). Operated by Vilnius University, it marked Lithuania's entry into space technology development and research. The satellite demonstrates the country's capabilities in designing and deploying miniaturized spacecraft for educational and scientific purposes.

## Key Facts
- **Launch Date**: June 23, 2017
- **COSPAR ID**: 2017-036D
- **Operator**: Vilnius University
- **Satellite Class**: 3U CubeSat (composed of three 10cm-sided cubic modules)
- **Launch Vehicle**: Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle-XL (PSLV-XL)
- **SATCAT Number (SCN)**: 42768
- **Significance**: Lithuania's first CubeSat and a milestone in its national space program
- **Dimensions**: 3U form factor (30cm x 10cm x 10cm)

## FAQs
### Q: What was the purpose of Lituanica SAT-2?
A: Lituanica SAT-2 was designed to demonstrate Lithuania's capability to develop and operate a CubeSat, serving educational and research objectives under Vilnius University.

### Q: How was Lituanica SAT-2 launched?
A: The satellite was launched on June 23, 2017, aboard the Indian Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle-XL (PSLV-XL), sharing the ride with other payloads.

### Q: Why is Lituanica SAT-2 notable?
A: It is Lithuania's first CubeSat, representing a significant achievement in the country's space technology development and academic collaboration.

## Why It Matters
Lituanica SAT-2 is a critical milestone in Lithuania's emerging space sector, showcasing the nation's ability to design, build, and deploy satellite technology. As the country's first CubeSat, it paved the way for future space research initiatives and fostered international collaboration, particularly through its launch on India's PSLV-XL. The project highlights the role of academic institutions like Vilnius University in advancing STEM education and applied technological innovation. While specific mission outcomes are not detailed in the source material, its launch demonstrated Lithuania's entry into the global space community, encouraging further investment in space exploration and development.

## Notable For
- Lithuania's first CubeSat satellite, marking a national achievement in space technology.
- Utilization of the 3U CubeSat form factor, a standardized design for low-cost, small-scale spacecraft.
- Collaboration between Vilnius University and international partners for launch and deployment.
- Part of a multi-payload mission on the PSLV-XL, reflecting efficient shared launch strategies.

## Body
### Launch & Deployment
Lituanica SAT-2 launched on June 23, 2017, at 03:59 UTC aboard the Indian Space Research Organisation's (ISRO) Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle-XL (PSLV-XL). The rocket lifted off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, India, deploying the satellite into orbit alongside other payloads.

### Technical Specifications
- **Class**: 3U CubeSat (three 10cm x 10cm x 10cm modular units)
- **Operator**: Vilnius University, Lithuania
- **Identifiers**:
  - **COSPAR ID**: 2017-036D
  - **SATCAT Number (SCN)**: 42768
- **Launch Vehicle**: PSLV-XL (Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle-XL)

### Mission & Operations
The satellite's primary mission was to serve as a technology demonstrator, validating Lithuania's capacity to develop and operate small satellites. While specific scientific objectives are not detailed in the source material, its operation by Vilnius University underscores its role in academic research and education.

### Legacy
Lituanica SAT-2 remains a symbol of Lithuania's entry into the space technology arena. Though its operational lifespan and post-launch achievements are not specified in the provided data, its successful deployment positioned Lithuania as an active participant in global small-satellite initiatives, inspiring subsequent projects and collaborations.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report