# Pathfinder-1

> artificial satellite launched in 2016

**Wikidata**: [Q27074108](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q27074108)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BlackSky_Pathfinder-1)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/pathfinder-1

## Summary
Pathfinder-1 is an artificial satellite launched on September 26, 2016, as part of the BlackSky Earth observation constellation. It was launched aboard a Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) and carries the NORAD catalog number 41787. The satellite is also known as BlackSky Pathfinder-1 and has a COSPAR ID of 2016-059E.

## Key Facts
- Launched on September 26, 2016, aboard a Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV)
- NORAD catalog number: 41787
- COSPAR ID: 2016-059E
- Also known as BlackSky Pathfinder-1 and PATHFINDER 1
- Instance of: artificial satellite
- Significant event: rocket launch on 2016-09-26
- Wikipedia title: BlackSky Pathfinder-1
- Available in Wikipedia languages: de, en, es
- Google Knowledge Graph ID: /g/11c1szzdz6
- Wolfram Language Entity Code: Entity["Satellite", "41787"]
- Wikidata description: artificial satellite launched in 2016

## FAQs
### Q: What is Pathfinder-1?
A: Pathfinder-1 is an artificial satellite launched in 2016 as part of BlackSky's Earth observation constellation. It was launched aboard a Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle on September 26, 2016.

### Q: When was Pathfinder-1 launched?
A: Pathfinder-1 was launched on September 26, 2016.

### Q: What launch vehicle carried Pathfinder-1?
A: Pathfinder-1 was launched aboard a Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV).

### Q: What is the COSPAR ID of Pathfinder-1?
A: The COSPAR ID of Pathfinder-1 is 2016-059E.

### Q: What is the NORAD catalog number for Pathfinder-1?
A: The NORAD catalog number for Pathfinder-1 is 41787.

## Why It Matters
Pathfinder-1 represents an important milestone in commercial Earth observation capabilities. As part of BlackSky's Pathfinder constellation, it demonstrates the growing role of private companies in providing satellite-based Earth monitoring services. The successful launch and operation of Pathfinder-1 helped validate BlackSky's approach to building a constellation of small, cost-effective satellites for frequent Earth imaging. This contributes to the democratization of space-based Earth observation, making high-resolution imagery more accessible for commercial, government, and research applications. The satellite's deployment via the reliable Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle also showcases international collaboration in space technology, with an American company utilizing Indian launch capabilities.

## Notable For
- First satellite in BlackSky's Pathfinder constellation
- Demonstrates commercial Earth observation capabilities
- Launched aboard India's reliable Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle
- Part of the growing trend of small satellite constellations
- Provides Earth imaging for commercial and government applications

## Body
### Technical Specifications
Pathfinder-1 is classified as an artificial satellite with the NORAD catalog number 41787. The satellite was successfully placed into orbit on September 26, 2016, marking its entry into operational status.

### Launch Details
The satellite was launched aboard a Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), a reliable expendable launch system developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). This launch vehicle has a strong track record for placing satellites into various orbits.

### Identification Information
The satellite is identified by multiple designations:
- COSPAR ID: 2016-059E
- NORAD catalog number: 41787
- Common names: BlackSky Pathfinder-1, PATHFINDER 1

### Constellation Context
Pathfinder-1 is part of BlackSky's Pathfinder constellation, which aims to provide Earth observation services through a network of small satellites. This approach represents a shift toward more frequent and cost-effective Earth monitoring capabilities.

### Documentation and References
The satellite's information is documented across multiple platforms:
- Wikidata with sitelink count of 3
- Wikipedia articles in German, English, and Spanish
- Google Knowledge Graph entry
- Wolfram Language entity classification

### Operational Significance
As an Earth observation satellite, Pathfinder-1 contributes to the growing capabilities in commercial space-based monitoring, supporting applications in various sectors including environmental monitoring, urban planning, and national security.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report