# MDS-1

> Japanese technology demonstration satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q3658287](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q3658287)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MDS-1)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/mds-1

## Summary
MDS-1 is a Japanese technology demonstration satellite, also known as Tsubasa or Mission Demonstration Satellite 1. It was launched on February 4, 2002, with the primary purpose of demonstrating experimental technologies in space.

## Key Facts
*   MDS-1 was launched on February 4, 2002, at 02:45.
*   It is classified as a technology demonstration spacecraft.
*   The satellite is also known by the aliases Tsubasa and Mission Demonstration Satellite 1.
*   Its COSPAR ID is 2002-003A.
*   Its Satellite Catalog Number (SCN) is 27367.
*   MDS-1 was launched using an H-IIA launch vehicle.
*   The launch took place from Yoshinobu Launch Complex Launch Pad 1.
*   It is described as a Japanese technology demonstration satellite.

## FAQs
### Q: What is MDS-1?
A: MDS-1 is a Japanese technology demonstration satellite. Its primary purpose was to demonstrate experimental technologies in the space environment.

### Q: When was MDS-1 launched?
A: MDS-1 was launched on February 4, 2002, at 02:45. The launch was a significant event for the satellite.

### Q: What launch vehicle was used for MDS-1?
A: MDS-1 was launched by an H-IIA launch vehicle, specifically the H-IIA-2F variant. This is a Japanese expendable medium-lift launch vehicle.

### Q: What are other names for MDS-1?
A: MDS-1 is also known by the aliases Tsubasa and Mission Demonstration Satellite 1.

### Q: Where was MDS-1 launched from?
A: MDS-1 was launched from Yoshinobu Launch Complex Launch Pad 1.

## Why It Matters
MDS-1 holds significance as a technology demonstration spacecraft, a critical category in the advancement of space exploration and satellite capabilities. By serving as a platform to demonstrate experimental technologies, missions like MDS-1 play a vital role in validating new systems, components, and methodologies under actual space conditions. This process is essential for reducing the risks associated with deploying unproven technologies in future, more complex or costly operational missions. The data and insights gathered from MDS-1's demonstrations contribute directly to improving the reliability and performance of subsequent spacecraft. It helps to ensure that new innovations are thoroughly tested and proven before widespread adoption, thereby fostering the development of more robust and capable space infrastructure for Japan.

## Notable For
*   Being a Japanese technology demonstration satellite.
*   Its role in demonstrating experimental technologies in space.
*   Its launch on the H-IIA launch vehicle.
*   Being known by the aliases Tsubasa and Mission Demonstration Satellite 1.

## Body

### Overview
MDS-1 is identified as a Japanese technology demonstration satellite. It is specifically classified as a technology demonstration spacecraft, indicating its primary function was to test and validate new technologies in orbit. The satellite is also recognized by its aliases, Tsubasa and Mission Demonstration Satellite 1. Its international identification includes a COSPAR ID of 2002-003A and a Satellite Catalog Number (SCN) of 27367.

### Launch Details
MDS-1 was launched on February 4, 2002, at 02:45. The launch was carried out using an H-IIA launch vehicle, specifically the H-IIA-2F variant. The launch originated from Yoshinobu Launch Complex Launch Pad 1. This rocket launch was a significant event in the satellite's operational history.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report