# MaqSat-H

> instrumented dummy satellite launched in 1997

**Wikidata**: [Q111498550](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q111498550)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/maqsat-h

## Summary
MaqSat-H was an instrumented dummy satellite launched on October 30, 1997, primarily designed to test the performance of the European Ariane 5G launch vehicle. Manufactured by Kayser-Threde GmbH and operated by Arianespace, the 2,290-kilogram spacecraft was placed into a geostationary transfer orbit. It also served as a host for the TEAMSAT payload during its mission.

## Key Facts
- **Launch Date:** October 30, 1997, at 13:43.
- **Launch Vehicle:** Ariane 5G (Flight V101).
- **Mass:** 2,290 kilograms.
- **Manufacturer:** Kayser-Threde GmbH.
- **Operator:** Arianespace.
- **COSPAR ID:** 1997-066A.
- **Satellite Catalog Number:** 25023.
- **Orbit:** Geostationary transfer orbit.
- **Alias:** Maquette Satellite - Haute.
- **Component:** Carried TEAMSAT as a part of its payload.

## FAQs
### Q: What was the specific purpose of the MaqSat-H satellite?
A: MaqSat-H was an instrumented dummy satellite used to gather data on the rocket environment during the launch of the Ariane 5G. It served as a research satellite to verify the performance of the launch vehicle rather than conducting independent scientific observations.

### Q: What rocket launched MaqSat-H?
A: MaqSat-H was launched aboard the Ariane 5G, a European launch vehicle, specifically on the flight designated V101.

### Q: Did MaqSat-H carry any other payloads?
A: Yes, MaqSat-H contained the TEAMSAT (Technology, Education, and Research Satellite) as a component part during the 1997 launch.

## Why It Matters
MaqSat-H represents a critical component in the early flight history of the Ariane 5 program. As an "instrumented dummy satellite," its primary role was to act as a test mass that could accurately measure and record the conditions of launch, a vital function for validating the reliability of a new rocket configuration. By simulating the mass properties of a real commercial satellite while carrying sensors, it allowed operators to verify the flight environment without risking an active, expensive payload.

Launched on the Ariane 5G (V101), the mission provided essential data regarding the vehicle's ability to deliver payloads to a geostationary transfer orbit. Furthermore, the mission maximized its utility by integrating TEAMSAT, providing an opportunity for technological experimentation. Its successful deployment and operation confirmed the capabilities of the Ariane 5 launch system and the hardware developed by manufacturer Kayser-Threde GmbH, solidifying standards for future European space launches.

## Notable For
- Being an **instrumented dummy satellite**, designed specifically to test launch vehicle parameters rather than for operational service.
- Launching on the **Ariane 5G**, a major version of the European Ariane 5 rocket family.
- Hosting **TEAMSAT**, contributing to secondary payload objectives during the launch.
- Being manufactured by **Kayser-Threde GmbH**, a notable German aerospace technology firm.
- Possessing a substantial mass of **2,290 kg**, simulating a heavy payload for the launch vehicle test.

## Body

### Mission Profile
MaqSat-H was launched on October 30, 1997, at 13:43 UTC. The launch took place at the ELA-3 (Ensemble de Lancement Ariane-3) launch complex. The primary objective was to test the Ariane 5G launch vehicle under flight conditions. The mission successfully placed the satellite into a geostationary transfer orbit.

### Technical Specifications
The spacecraft had a total mass of 2,290 kilograms. It is officially classified as a research satellite and an instance of an artificial satellite designed for scientific research. The satellite is also identified by the alias "Maquette Satellite - Haute."

### Manufacturers and Operators
The satellite was manufactured by Kayser-Threde GmbH, a German systems engineering and space technology company. The operator responsible for the mission was Arianespace, the multinational company responsible for marketing and operating the Ariane launch system.

### Identifiers and Classification
MaqSat-H is tracked in space catalogs under the following identifiers:
- **Satellite Catalog Number (SCN):** 25023
- **COSPAR ID:** 1997-066A
- **NSSDCA ID:** 1997-066A
- **Wolfram Language Entity Code:** `Entity["Satellite", "25023"]`

### Associated Payloads
The significant event record for the launch notes the presence of "MaqSat-B" and "Young Engineers' Satellite" (YES) alongside MaqSat-H. Specifically, MaqSat-H is listed as having TEAMSAT as a component part.

## References

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