# PRISM

> Japanese student Earth observation and communication satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q11239090](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q11239090)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/prism

## Summary
PRISM is a Japanese student-built nanosatellite weighing 8.5 kg, launched in 2009. It serves as both an Earth observation satellite and an amateur radio satellite, developed by the University of Tokyo to advance remote-sensing and space mission technologies.

## Key Facts
- **Class**: Nanosatellite (≤20 kg)
- **Type**: Earth observation satellite and amateur radio satellite
- **Mass**: 8.5 kilograms
- **Developer**: University of Tokyo
- **Launch Date**: January 23, 2009, at 03:54 UTC
- **Launch Vehicle**: H-IIA (H-IIA-15 variant)
- **Orbit**: Sun-synchronous orbit
- **Aliases**: Pico-satellite for Remote-sensing and Innovative Space Missions, Hitomi
- **Country of Origin**: Japan
- **COSPAR ID**: 2009-002B
- **NSSDCA ID**: 2009-002B

## FAQs
### Q: What was PRISM’s primary mission?
A: PRISM was designed for Earth observation and amateur radio communication, developed by students at the University of Tokyo to test remote-sensing and space mission technologies.

### Q: How heavy was PRISM?
A: PRISM weighed 8.5 kilograms, qualifying it as a nanosatellite.

### Q: What type of orbit did PRISM operate in?
A: PRISM was placed in a sun-synchronous orbit after its 2009 launch.

### Q: Who developed PRISM?
A: The University of Tokyo developed PRISM as a student-led project.

### Q: What launch vehicle carried PRISM into space?
A: PRISM was launched aboard an H-IIA rocket (H-IIA-15 variant) from Yoshinobu Launch Complex Launch Pad 1.

## Why It Matters
PRISM represents a significant milestone in student-led space exploration, demonstrating the feasibility of miniaturized Earth observation and communication satellites. As a nanosatellite, it contributed to the growing field of cost-effective space technology, offering insights into remote-sensing and amateur radio applications. Its development by the University of Tokyo showcased Japan’s commitment to educational space initiatives, bridging academic research with practical satellite deployment. While its operational lifespan is not detailed, PRISM’s legacy lies in its role as a testbed for future nanosatellite missions, particularly in Earth observation and amateur radio communication.

## Notable For
- **Student-built nanosatellite**: One of the first successful student-developed nanosatellites in Japan.
- **Dual-purpose design**: Combined Earth observation and amateur radio functions in a single 8.5 kg satellite.
- **Sun-synchronous orbit**: Operated in a precise orbit for consistent Earth imaging.
- **H-IIA launch**: Deployed aboard Japan’s H-IIA rocket, a medium-lift expendable launch vehicle.
- **University of Tokyo initiative**: Developed as part of academic research, advancing space technology education.

## Body
### Overview
PRISM (Pico-satellite for Remote-sensing and Innovative Space Missions) is a Japanese nanosatellite developed by the University of Tokyo. Launched on January 23, 2009, it weighed 8.5 kg and served as both an Earth observation satellite and an amateur radio satellite. The project aimed to test remote-sensing technologies and innovative space mission concepts.

### Development and Launch
- **Developer**: University of Tokyo
- **Launch Date**: January 23, 2009, at 03:54 UTC
- **Launch Vehicle**: H-IIA (H-IIA-15 variant)
- **Launch Site**: Yoshinobu Launch Complex Launch Pad 1
- **Orbit**: Sun-synchronous orbit

### Technical Specifications
- **Mass**: 8.5 kilograms
- **Class**: Nanosatellite (≤20 kg)
- **Functions**: Earth observation and amateur radio communication
- **Aliases**: Hitomi (alternative name)

### Identification and Tracking
- **COSPAR ID**: 2009-002B
- **NSSDCA ID**: 2009-002B

### Significance
PRISM was a pioneering student-led nanosatellite project, contributing to Japan’s space technology advancements. Its dual-purpose design and successful deployment demonstrated the potential of miniaturized satellites for Earth observation and amateur radio applications. The mission provided valuable data for future nanosatellite missions.

## References

1. [Source](http://www.space.t.u-tokyo.ac.jp/prism/about.html)
2. Jonathan's Space Report