# Microlab 1

> 23547

**Wikidata**: [Q111498981](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q111498981)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/microlab-1

## Summary  
Microlab 1 is an artificial satellite launched into orbit on April 3, 1995. It was deployed using a Pegasus launch vehicle and is identified by the COSPAR ID 1995-017C. As part of the class of human-made objects placed in orbit, Microlab 1 represents one of many scientific or technological payloads sent to space during the mid-1990s.

## Key Facts  
- Launched on **April 3, 1995**  
- Assigned **COSPAR ID**: 1995-017C  
- Deployed via **Pegasus**, an air-launched rocket developed in **1987**  
- Classified as an **artificial satellite**  
- Also known as **23547** per some tracking systems  
- Registered under **NSSDCA ID**: 1995-017C  
- Referenced in academic databases such as Wolfram Language with code **Entity["Satellite", "23547"]**

## FAQs  

### Q: What is Microlab 1?  
A: Microlab 1 is an artificial satellite launched into Earth's orbit on April 3, 1995. It was carried into space using a Pegasus rocket and is catalogued under multiple international identifiers including COSPAR ID 1995-017C.

### Q: When was Microlab 1 launched?  
A: Microlab 1 was launched on **April 3, 1995**. The launch utilized the Pegasus air-launched rocket system.

### Q: How was Microlab 1 launched into space?  
A: Microlab 1 was launched using the **Pegasus** rocket, which is an air-launched vehicle originally developed in 1987.

## Why It Matters  
Microlab 1 contributes to the broader category of artificial satellites that support various scientific, commercial, or governmental missions in low Earth orbit. While detailed mission specifics are not provided here, its successful deployment reflects advancements in small-scale payload delivery during the 1990s. Satellites like Microlab 1 often serve roles in technology demonstration, research experiments, or educational outreach—areas critical to expanding orbital infrastructure and capabilities. Its inclusion in global tracking systems underscores its recognition within aerospace documentation frameworks.

## Notable For  
- Being launched aboard the **Pegasus rocket**, a notable air-launched system since 1987  
- Identification across multiple authoritative catalogs: **COSPAR ID 1995-017C**, **NSSDCA ID 1995-017C**, and **Wolfram Language Entity Code**  
- Part of the expanding wave of smaller, specialized payloads launched throughout the 1990s  
- Represents continued use of innovative launch platforms beyond traditional ground-based rockets  

## Body  

### Launch Details  
Microlab 1 was successfully launched on **April 3, 1995**. The launch occurred using the **Pegasus** rocket, a three-stage, air-launched booster designed for deploying lightweight payloads into low Earth orbit. Pegasus itself had been operational since **1987**, offering flexibility in launch operations due to its airborne deployment method.

### Classification and Identifiers  
The object is classified as an **artificial satellite**, indicating it is a man-made object placed into orbit around Earth. Several formal identification codes have been assigned to ensure accurate cataloging and tracking:  
- **COSPAR ID**: 1995-017C  
- **NSSDCA ID**: 1995-017C  
- **SCN (Space Command Number)**: 23547  
- **Wolfram Language Entity Code**: Entity["Satellite", "23547"]

These identifiers link Microlab 1 to major space situational awareness and academic databases used globally for satellite monitoring and reference.

### Mission Context  
While no specific functional purpose is stated in the source materials, Microlab 1 fits within the general trend of microsatellite development during the 1990s. These missions typically focused on cost-effective access to space for experimental technologies, university-led projects, or government-sponsored research initiatives. Given its designation and launch profile, Microlab 1 likely played a role in advancing understanding of miniaturized spacecraft design or testing new subsystem components in orbit.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report