# OSCAR 8
**Wikidata**: [Q17297112](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q17297112)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/OSCAR_8)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/oscar-8

## Summary
OSCAR 8, also known by its alias Amsat P2D, is an amateur radio satellite that was launched on March 5, 1978. It was deployed from Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2 using a Delta 2000 launch vehicle. As an amateur radio satellite, it transmitted signals for use by radio enthusiasts.

## Key Facts
*   Launched on March 5, 1978.
*   Classified as an amateur radio satellite.
*   Also known by the alias Amsat P2D.
*   Launched from Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2.
*   Utilized a Delta 2000 launch vehicle.
*   Its COSPAR ID is 1978-026B.
*   Its Satellite Catalog Number (SCN) is 10703.

## FAQs
### Q: What is OSCAR 8?
A: OSCAR 8, also known as Amsat P2D, is an amateur radio satellite. It was launched in 1978 to facilitate amateur radio communications from space.

### Q: When was OSCAR 8 launched?
A: OSCAR 8 was launched on March 5, 1978. This event was a rocket launch from Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2.

### Q: What type of satellite is OSCAR 8?
A: OSCAR 8 is an amateur radio satellite. This classification indicates its primary purpose was to transmit amateur radio signals for use by enthusiasts.

### Q: Where was OSCAR 8 launched from?
A: OSCAR 8 was launched from Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2. This location served as the start point for its mission.

### Q: What launch vehicle was used for OSCAR 8?
A: OSCAR 8 was launched using a Delta 2000 launch vehicle. The Delta 2000 is a series of American expendable launch systems.

## Why It Matters
OSCAR 8 holds significance as an amateur radio satellite, contributing to the advancement and accessibility of space-based communication for radio enthusiasts worldwide. Its launch in 1978 marked a continuation of efforts to provide platforms for amateur radio operators to experiment with and utilize satellite technology. By transmitting amateur radio signals, OSCAR 8 enabled a global community of hobbyists and researchers to engage in long-distance communication, fostering innovation and education in radio science and space technology. It served as a practical tool for developing skills in satellite tracking, signal reception, and transmission, thereby expanding the reach and capabilities of amateur radio. As part of the OSCAR series, it played a role in demonstrating the viability and utility of small, dedicated satellites for non-commercial scientific and educational purposes. This mission helped to solidify the role of amateur satellites in space exploration and communication, providing invaluable experience and data for subsequent projects and inspiring new generations of radio amateurs and engineers.

## Notable For
*   Being an amateur radio satellite, providing space-based communication for enthusiasts.
*   Its launch on March 5, 1978, from Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2.
*   Being deployed by a Delta 2000 launch vehicle.
*   Its alternative designation, Amsat P2D.

## Body

### Overview
OSCAR 8 is an amateur radio satellite, also identified by the alias Amsat P2D. It is cataloged with the SCN 10703 and COSPAR ID 1978-026B.

### Launch Details
*   **Launch Date:** OSCAR 8 was launched on March 5, 1978.
*   **Launch Site:** The satellite's launch point was Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2.
*   **Launch Vehicle:** A Delta 2000 launch vehicle was used to deploy OSCAR 8 into orbit. The Delta 2000 is a series of American expendable launch systems.
*   **Significant Event:** The launch of OSCAR 8 constituted a rocket launch event.

### Classification and Related Entities
*   **Instance Of:** OSCAR 8 is an instance of an amateur radio satellite. This type of satellite is designed to transmit amateur radio signals.
*   **Related Class:** The Delta 2000, which served as its launch vehicle, is a related class of expendable launch systems.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report