# Reflector

> space debris research microsatellite built in Russia by NII KP for the United States Air Force Research Lab at Kirtland AFB

**Wikidata**: [Q22084814](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q22084814)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reflector_(microsatellite))  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/reflector

## Summary
Reflector is a space debris research microsatellite built in Russia by NII KP for the United States Air Force Research Laboratory at Kirtland AFB. Launched in 2001, it was designed to study and test optical research, calibration, and laser experiments, featuring a retroreflector array.

## Key Facts
- **Class**: Small satellite (under 1,200 kg) and research satellite
- **Mass**: 6 kg (launch weight)
- **Operator**: United States Air Force Research Laboratory
- **Launch date**: December 10, 2001, at 17:18:57 UTC
- **Launch site**: Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 45
- **Launch vehicle**: Zenit-2 rocket (serial number 45021-101/19L)
- **Components**: Equipped with a retroreflector array of 32 units
- **Identifiers**: COSPAR ID 2001-056E, NSSDCA ID 2001-056E
- **Aliases**: USA-163, Reflektor, Retro-reflector Ensemble For Laser Experiments, Calibration, Testing & Optical Research

## FAQs
### Q: What was the purpose of the Reflector satellite?
A: Reflector was designed for space debris research, optical calibration, and laser experiments. Its retroreflector array allowed precise measurements and testing in orbit.

### Q: Who built and launched the Reflector satellite?
A: The satellite was built by the Russian organization NII KP and launched by the United States Air Force Research Laboratory from Baikonur Cosmodrome using a Zenit-2 rocket.

### Q: How many retroreflectors were on the Reflector satellite?
A: Reflector was equipped with 32 retroreflectors, which were used for laser experiments and optical research.

### Q: What was the launch weight of the Reflector satellite?
A: The satellite had a launch weight of 6 kilograms.

### Q: What organization operated the Reflector satellite?
A: The United States Air Force Research Laboratory operated the Reflector satellite.

## Why It Matters
Reflector played a crucial role in advancing space debris research and optical calibration techniques. As a microsatellite, it demonstrated the feasibility of using small, specialized spacecraft for scientific and experimental purposes. Its retroreflector array enabled precise laser experiments, contributing to the understanding of orbital dynamics and space environment interactions. The satellite’s mission supported the U.S. Air Force’s research goals while leveraging Russian engineering expertise. Reflector’s design and capabilities set a precedent for future small satellites focused on space surveillance and optical research.

## Notable For
- **First of its kind**: One of the earliest microsatellites dedicated to space debris research and optical calibration.
- **Retroreflector array**: Featured 32 retroreflectors, a novel design for laser experiments in orbit.
- **Collaborative effort**: Built by Russia’s NII KP for the U.S. Air Force, showcasing international cooperation in space research.
- **Lightweight design**: Weighed only 6 kg, highlighting advancements in miniaturized satellite technology.
- **Laser experimentation**: Contributed to the development of techniques for precise orbital measurements.

## Body
### Overview
Reflector was a small satellite (under 1,200 kg) developed for the United States Air Force Research Laboratory by the Russian organization NII KP. Launched on December 10, 2001, from Baikonur Cosmodrome using a Zenit-2 rocket, it was part of the USA-163 mission.

### Design and Components
The satellite had a launch weight of 6 kg and was equipped with a retroreflector array consisting of 32 units. These retroreflectors were used for laser experiments, calibration, and optical research, making Reflector a specialized tool for space debris studies.

### Mission and Objectives
Reflector’s primary objectives included space debris research, optical calibration, and laser experimentation. Its retroreflector array allowed for precise measurements and testing in orbit, contributing to the broader field of space surveillance and environmental monitoring.

### Launch and Operation
The satellite was launched at 17:18:57 UTC from Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 45. It was operated by the Air Force Research Laboratory and identified by the COSPAR ID 2001-056E and NSSDCA ID 2001-056E.

### Legacy
Reflector remains notable for its innovative use of microsatellite technology for scientific research. Its retroreflector array and lightweight design set a precedent for future small satellites focused on optical and laser-based experiments. The mission underscored the potential of collaborative efforts between international partners in advancing space research.

## References

1. [Source](https://space.skyrocket.de/doc_sdat/reflector.htm)
2. Jonathan's Space Report