# Phi-Sat-1

> ESA satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q97473810](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q97473810)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phi-Sat-1)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/phi-sat-1

## Summary
Phi-Sat-1 is an ESA satellite classified as a CubeSat, a type of miniaturized spacecraft composed of standardized 10cm cubic modules. It was launched on September 3, 2020, atop a Vega launch vehicle, which was a European expendable orbital rocket.

## Key Facts
*   **Classification:** Phi-Sat-1 is a CubeSat, defined as a miniaturized satellite made up of 10cm-sided cubic modules.
*   **Operator:** The satellite is operated by the European Space Agency (ESA).
*   **Launch Date:** It was launched on September 3, 2020.
*   **Launch Vehicle:** The satellite was delivered to orbit by the Vega rocket, a now-retired European expendable orbital launch vehicle.
*   **COSPAR ID:** Its international designation is 2020-061W.
*   **Satellite Catalog Number:** It is tracked under SCN 46292.
*   **Google Knowledge Graph ID:** /g/11k0lbb7sj

## FAQs
### Q: What type of satellite is Phi-Sat-1?
A: Phi-Sat-1 is a CubeSat, which is a class of miniaturized satellites built using standard 10cm-sided cubic units.

### Q: When was Phi-Sat-1 launched?
A: Phi-Sat-1 was launched on September 3, 2020.

### Q: What rocket was used to launch Phi-Sat-1?
A: The satellite was launched aboard the Vega launch vehicle, a European expendable rocket that has since been retired.

## Why It Matters
Phi-Sat-1 serves as a notable example of the European Space Agency's utilization of the CubeSat standard for space missions. By employing this miniaturized format—characterized by 10cm-sided cubic modules—the entity represents a shift toward more compact and modular satellite design within ESA's operations.

The launch of Phi-Sat-1 also marks a specific historical data point in the timeline of the Vega launch vehicle. As a payload deployed by this European rocket before its retirement, Phi-Sat-1 contributes to the launch history and operational legacy of European orbital capabilities during the 2020 timeframe. The satellite's specific tracking identifiers (COSPAR ID 2020-061W and SCN 46292) ensure its unique recognition in global space catalogs.

## Notable For
*   **ESA CubeSat:** It is a specific instance of a CubeSat operated by the European Space Agency.
*   **Vega Payload:** It is one of the payloads deployed by the Vega launch vehicle during its operational history.
*   **Standardization:** It exemplifies the use of standardized 10cm cubic modules in modern satellite design.

## Body
### Classification and Design
Phi-Sat-1 is formally classified as a **CubeSat**. This category of spacecraft is defined by its miniaturized size and modular construction, specifically utilizing cubic modules that are 10 centimeters on each side. As an **ESA satellite**, it falls under the operation and ownership of the European Space Agency.

### Launch and Deployment
The satellite successfully reached orbit on **September 3, 2020**. The launch was facilitated by the **Vega** rocket system.
*   **Launch Vehicle Context:** The Vega is identified as a retired European expendable orbital launch vehicle.
*   **Mission Designation:** The launch event is cataloged under the COSPAR ID **2020-061W**.

### Tracking and Identification
Phi-Sat-1 is uniquely identified in space object catalogs through several designators:
*   **Satellite Catalog Number (SCN):** 46292
*   **COSPAR International Designator:** 2020-061W
*   **Google Knowledge Graph ID:** /g/11k0lbb7sj

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report