# Ralphie

> satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q7288341](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q7288341)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ralphie_(satellite))  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/ralphie-q7288341

## Summary
Ralphie is an artificial satellite launched on December 21, 2004, from Cape Canaveral Space Launch Complex 37 using a Delta IV Heavy launch vehicle. It is a human-made object placed into orbit as part of space exploration and satellite technology development.

## Key Facts
- Launched on December 21, 2004, from Cape Canaveral Space Launch Complex 37
- Launched using a Delta IV Heavy expendable launch system
- Classified as an artificial satellite (human-made object placed in orbit)
- Has a Wikidata sitelink count of 1
- Wikipedia title is "Ralphie (satellite)"
- Described on Wikidata as a "satellite"
- Associated with Freebase ID /m/0gg76kl
- Has an associated image available at https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:FilePath/3CS_satellites_at_testing_facility.jpg

## FAQs
### Q: What type of satellite is Ralphie?
A: Ralphie is an artificial satellite, which is a human-made object placed into orbit around Earth or another celestial body for various purposes including communication, observation, or scientific research.

### Q: When and how was Ralphie launched?
A: Ralphie was launched on December 21, 2004, from Cape Canaveral Space Launch Complex 37 using a Delta IV Heavy launch vehicle, which is a powerful expendable launch system in the Delta rocket family.

### Q: What is the significance of Ralphie's launch vehicle?
A: Ralphie was launched using a Delta IV Heavy, which is one of the most powerful launch vehicles available, capable of carrying heavy payloads into orbit, making it suitable for launching larger or more complex satellites.

## Why It Matters
Ralphie represents a significant achievement in satellite technology and space exploration. As an artificial satellite launched in the mid-2000s, it demonstrates the continued advancement of space capabilities during this period. The use of the Delta IV Heavy launch vehicle indicates that Ralphie was likely a substantial satellite requiring significant lifting power, possibly for important scientific, military, or commercial purposes. Satellites like Ralphie play crucial roles in modern society, enabling everything from global communications and navigation to weather forecasting and Earth observation. The successful deployment of such satellites contributes to our understanding of space technology and expands our capabilities in orbit, which has far-reaching implications for both civilian and defense applications.

## Notable For
- Launched using the powerful Delta IV Heavy rocket, one of the most capable launch vehicles of its time
- Successfully placed into orbit on December 21, 2004, demonstrating reliable launch capabilities
- Associated with Cape Canaveral Space Launch Complex 37, a major launch facility for U.S. space missions
- Represents the class of artificial satellites that form the backbone of modern space-based infrastructure
- Has a documented launch event with specific qualifiers including launch site and date

## Body
### Launch Details
Ralphie was launched on December 21, 2004, marking a specific point in space exploration history. The launch took place at Cape Canaveral Space Launch Complex 37, a facility known for hosting significant space missions. This launch site has been the origin for numerous important space launches, particularly those involving the Delta rocket family.

### Technical Specifications
The satellite was launched using a Delta IV Heavy, which is described as a retired expendable launch system in the Delta rocket family. This launch vehicle is known for its substantial lifting capacity, capable of placing heavy payloads into various orbits. The Delta IV Heavy has been used for both government and commercial missions, highlighting its versatility and reliability.

### Classification and Documentation
Ralphie is classified as an artificial satellite, placing it in the category of human-made objects intentionally placed in orbit. This classification is supported by its Wikidata description and its instance of property. The satellite has a Freebase ID of /m/0gg76kl, providing a unique identifier for cross-referencing across knowledge bases.

### Media and Documentation
An image of Ralphie or related 3CS satellites at a testing facility is available through Wikimedia Commons, providing visual documentation of the satellite or its testing process. This image can be accessed at https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:FilePath/3CS_satellites_at_testing_facility.jpg, offering researchers and the public a glimpse into the physical characteristics of these satellites.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report