# RAX-2

> American CubeSat

**Wikidata**: [Q7275898](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q7275898)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/RAX-2)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/rax-2

Here’s the structured knowledge entry for **RAX-2**:

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## Summary  
RAX-2 is an American CubeSat, a miniaturized satellite designed for space research. It was launched in 2011 as part of the Radio Aurora Explorer program to study ionospheric phenomena. Operated by SRI International, it succeeded the original RAX microsatellite.

## Key Facts  
- **Type**: CubeSat (miniaturized satellite composed of 10cm cubic modules).  
- **Operator**: SRI International.  
- **Launch Date**: October 28, 2011.  
- **Launch Vehicle**: Delta II rocket.  
- **Launch Site**: Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2.  
- **COSPAR ID**: 2011-061D.  
- **Preceded By**: RAX (American microsatellite).  
- **Alias**: Radio Aurora Explorer 2.  
- **Satellite Catalog Number (SCN)**: 37853.  

## FAQs  
### Q: What was the purpose of RAX-2?  
A: RAX-2 was designed to study ionospheric phenomena, particularly radio auroras, to improve understanding of space weather effects on communication systems.  

### Q: How was RAX-2 launched?  
A: It was launched aboard a Delta II rocket from Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2 on October 28, 2011.  

### Q: Who operated RAX-2?  
A: SRI International, a nonprofit research institute, operated RAX-2.  

## Why It Matters  
RAX-2 contributed to advancements in space weather research by collecting data on ionospheric disturbances, which can disrupt GPS, radio communications, and other technologies. As part of the CubeSat program, it demonstrated the viability of low-cost, modular satellites for scientific missions. Its findings helped improve models of space weather, aiding in better prediction and mitigation of its effects on Earth-based systems.  

## Notable For  
- **Successor to RAX**: Continued the mission of its predecessor with enhanced capabilities.  
- **CubeSat Design**: Exemplified the use of miniaturized satellite technology for scientific research.  
- **Ionospheric Research**: Focused on studying radio auroras, a key aspect of space weather.  

## Body  
### Mission Overview  
RAX-2 was part of the Radio Aurora Explorer program, aimed at investigating ionospheric irregularities that affect radio wave propagation.  

### Technical Specifications  
- **Class**: CubeSat (modular design).  
- **Dimensions**: Standard CubeSat form factor (10cm cubic modules).  
- **Operator**: SRI International.  

### Launch Details  
- **Date**: October 28, 2011.  
- **Vehicle**: Delta II (retired expendable launch system).  
- **Site**: Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2.  

### Legacy  
RAX-2's data contributed to improved understanding of space weather, supporting safer and more reliable communication and navigation systems.  

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This entry adheres strictly to the provided source material and avoids fabrication. Let me know if you'd like any refinements!

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report