# Raavana 1

> Sri Lankan research satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q63343946](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q63343946)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Raavana_1)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/raavana-1

## Summary
Raavana 1 is Sri Lanka's first research satellite, launched in 2019 to demonstrate technology and study Earth's upper atmosphere. It was deployed from the International Space Station (ISS) after being carried into orbit by a Northrop Grumman Antares rocket. The satellite marked Sri Lanka's entry into the global space research community.

## Key Facts
- **Launch Date**: April 17, 2019
- **Launch Vehicle**: Northrop Grumman Antares (U.S.)
- **COSPAR ID**: 1998-067QF
- **Satellite Catalog Number (SCN)**: 44330
- **Classification**: Small satellite (under 1,200 kg)
- **Country of Origin**: Sri Lanka
- **Type**: CubeSat (2-unit configuration)
- **Deployment Method**: Released from the ISS via NanoRacks deployer

## FAQs
### Q: What is Raavana 1 known for?
A: Raavana 1 is recognized as Sri Lanka's first research satellite, designed to test communication technologies and collect data on Earth's upper atmosphere.

### Q: How was Raavana 1 launched?
A: The satellite was launched aboard a Northrop Grumman Antares rocket on April 17, 2019, and later deployed from the International Space Station.

### Q: What was the primary purpose of Raavana 1?
A: Its main goals were to demonstrate satellite technology, study atmospheric conditions, and serve as an educational project for Sri Lankan students.

## Why It Matters
Raavana 1 represents a milestone in Sri Lanka's space exploration efforts, showcasing the country's capacity to engage in space research and technology development. As a collaborative project involving local students and international partners, it highlighted the potential for small nations to contribute to global scientific initiatives. The satellite's deployment from the ISS underscored its role in fostering educational opportunities in STEM fields, inspiring future generations of scientists and engineers in Sri Lanka. While its technical scope was modest, its symbolic importance as a "first" for the nation amplified its impact, encouraging further investment in space-related projects and fostering regional cooperation in aerospace innovation.

## Notable For
- First satellite designed and developed in Sri Lanka
- Deployed from the International Space Station (ISS)
- Collaborative project involving local students and international partners
- Utilized a 2-unit CubeSat design for low-cost space research
- Part of a growing trend of small satellites from emerging spacefaring nations

## Body
### Launch and Deployment
- **Launch Vehicle**: Northrop Grumman Antares (U.S.) on April 17, 2019
- **Deployment Date**: Released from the ISS in July 2019 via NanoRacks CubeSat Deployer
- **Launch Site**: Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport, Virginia, U.S.

### Technical Specifications
- **Satellite Class**: Small satellite (under 1,200 kg)
- **Design**: 2-unit CubeSat (10 cm × 10 cm × 22.5 cm)
- **Mission Duration**: Designed for approximately 1.5 years of operation
- **Payload**: Sensors to collect data on atmospheric pressure, temperature, and humidity

### Mission Objectives
- Technology demonstration for communication systems
- Study of Earth's upper atmosphere and ionospheric conditions
- Educational outreach to promote STEM engagement in Sri Lanka

### Legacy
- Paved the way for Sri Lanka's participation in international space research collaborations
- Demonstrated the feasibility of low-cost satellite projects for developing nations
- Inspired follow-up initiatives, including plans for future satellites like Raavana 2

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report