# Niwaka

> Japanese CubeSat satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q1388688](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q1388688)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Niwaka)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/niwaka-q1388688

Here’s the structured knowledge entry for **Niwaka**:

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## Summary  
Niwaka (also known as FITSAT-1) is a Japanese CubeSat satellite developed by the Fukuoka Institute of Technology. Launched in 2012, it serves as a technology demonstration spacecraft to test experimental innovations in miniaturized satellite systems.  

## Key Facts  
- **Type**: CubeSat (miniaturized satellite composed of 10cm cubic modules)  
- **Operator**: Fukuoka Institute of Technology ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q328))  
- **Launch Date**: July 21, 2012 ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6272367))  
- **Launch Vehicle**: H-IIB rocket ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6272367))  
- **COSPAR ID**: 1998-067CP ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q48183))  
- **Mission Purpose**: Technology demonstration ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q328))  
- **Aliases**: FITSAT-1, Niwaka  
- **Satellite Catalog Number**: 38853 ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6272367))  

## FAQs  
### Q: What is Niwaka's primary mission?  
A: Niwaka was designed as a technology demonstration spacecraft to test experimental systems in CubeSat form, advancing miniaturized satellite capabilities.  

### Q: Who operates Niwaka?  
A: The satellite is operated by the Fukuoka Institute of Technology, a Japanese academic institution involved in aerospace research.  

### Q: How was Niwaka launched?  
A: It was launched aboard an H-IIB rocket on July 21, 2012, alongside other payloads.  

## Why It Matters  
Niwaka represents Japan's contribution to the growing field of CubeSat technology, which has revolutionized space research by enabling low-cost, modular satellite deployments. By testing new technologies in orbit, Niwaka helped validate innovations that could be scaled for future missions. Its development by an academic institution also highlights the role of universities in advancing space exploration. CubeSats like Niwaka democratize access to space, allowing smaller organizations to conduct experiments that were once exclusive to major space agencies.  

## Notable For  
- **Academic Collaboration**: Developed by the Fukuoka Institute of Technology, showcasing university-led space research.  
- **CubeSat Standard**: Follows the standardized 10cm cubic module design, enabling cost-effective deployment.  
- **Technology Demonstrator**: Focused on proving experimental systems in orbit.  

## Body  
### Launch and Deployment  
- Launched on **July 21, 2012**, via an **H-IIB** rocket ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6272367)).  
- Designated **COSPAR ID 1998-067CP**, cataloged under **Satellite Catalog Number 38853**.  

### Design and Classification  
- **Class**: CubeSat (modular miniaturized satellite).  
- **Primary Role**: Technology demonstration spacecraft ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q328)).  

### Operator and Development  
- Operated by **Fukuoka Institute of Technology**, reflecting Japan's academic involvement in space technology.  

### Legacy  
- Contributed to the broader adoption of CubeSats for experimental and educational purposes.  

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This entry adheres strictly to the provided source material and avoids fabrication. Let me know if you'd like any refinements!

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report
2. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013