# PROBA

> series of European research satellites

**Wikidata**: [Q3888188](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q3888188)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/proba

## Summary
PROBA is a series of European research satellites operated by the European Space Agency. The name stands for "Project for On-Board Autonomy." These satellites are designed for scientific research and technological demonstration missions.

## Key Facts
- PROBA satellites are operated by the European Space Agency
- The series includes PROBA-1, PROBA-2, PROBA-V, PROBA-V Companion CubeSat, and PROBA-3
- PROBA stands for "Project for On-Board Autonomy"
- The satellites are manufactured by Verhaert and QinetiQ
- PROBA satellites are classified as research satellites and spacecraft series
- The project has a Wikipedia description in Italian language

## FAQs
### Q: What does PROBA stand for?
A: PROBA stands for "Project for On-Board Autonomy," reflecting the satellites' autonomous capabilities and research focus.

### Q: Who operates the PROBA satellites?
A: The European Space Agency (ESA) operates the PROBA satellite series, managing their research and technology demonstration missions.

### Q: How many PROBA satellites have been launched?
A: Five PROBA satellites have been launched: PROBA-1, PROBA-2, PROBA-V, PROBA-V Companion CubeSat, and PROBA-3.

## Why It Matters
PROBA represents a significant advancement in European space technology and research capabilities. As a series of research satellites, PROBA enables autonomous operations and scientific experiments that push the boundaries of what small satellites can achieve. The program demonstrates ESA's commitment to developing innovative space technologies while conducting valuable Earth observation and space science research. By providing a platform for testing new technologies in orbit, PROBA helps reduce risks for future space missions and contributes to the broader understanding of our planet and space environment. The series has established Europe as a leader in small satellite technology and autonomous space systems.

## Notable For
- First European satellite series specifically designed for on-board autonomy
- Pioneer in demonstrating autonomous operations for small satellites
- Platform for testing innovative space technologies before wider deployment
- Successful series of Earth observation missions with varying capabilities
- Collaboration between European manufacturers Verhaert and QinetiQ

## Body
### Development and Purpose
The PROBA satellite series was developed by the European Space Agency as a platform for research and technology demonstration. The program focuses on autonomous operations and testing new space technologies in orbit.

### Satellite Versions
The PROBA series includes multiple satellites with different capabilities:
- PROBA-1: The first in the series, launched to demonstrate autonomous operations
- PROBA-2: Focused on solar monitoring and space weather observation
- PROBA-V: Vegetation monitoring satellite that continues the work of the SPOT-VEGETATION mission
- PROBA-V Companion CubeSat: A smaller companion satellite to PROBA-V
- PROBA-3: Designed for formation flying demonstration

### Technical Characteristics
PROBA satellites are characterized by their autonomous capabilities, allowing them to perform tasks with minimal ground intervention. The satellites incorporate various scientific instruments and technology demonstration payloads depending on their specific mission objectives.

### Manufacturing and Operations
The satellites are manufactured by European companies Verhaert and QinetiQ, reflecting European industrial capabilities in space technology. The European Space Agency manages the operations and research programs for the entire PROBA series.