# RSat-P

> microsatellite built by the United States Naval Academy

**Wikidata**: [Q59785202](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q59785202)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Repair_Satellite_Prototype)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/rsat-p

## Summary
RSat-P (Repair Satellite Prototype) is a microsatellite classified as a CubeSat that was built by the United States Naval Academy. It was launched on December 16, 2018, aboard an Electron launch vehicle and is assigned the COSPAR ID 2018-104F.

## Key Facts
- **Class:** CubeSat (miniaturized satellite made up of 10cm-sided cubic modules).
- **Manufacturer:** United States Naval Academy.
- **Launch Date:** December 16, 2018.
- **Launch Vehicle:** Electron (two-stage orbital launch vehicle).
- **COSPAR ID:** 2018-104F.
- **Satellite Catalog Number (SCN):** 43854.
- **Country:** United States.
- **Aliases:** Repair Satellite Prototype.

## FAQs
### Q: What does RSat-P stand for?
A: RSat-P stands for Repair Satellite Prototype. It serves as a prototype microsatellite developed by the United States Naval Academy.

### Q: Who manufactured the RSat-P satellite?
A: The RSat-P satellite was manufactured by the United States Naval Academy.

### Q: When and how was RSat-P launched?
A: RSat-P was launched on December 16, 2018, using a Rocket Lab Electron two-stage orbital launch vehicle.

## Why It Matters
RSat-P represents a significant contribution to the United States Naval Academy's space program, specifically within the domain of miniaturized satellite technology. As a "Repair Satellite Prototype," it indicates an educational and technical focus on the burgeoning field of on-orbit servicing and repair capabilities, which are critical for extending the lifespan of expensive space assets. By utilizing the CubeSat form factor, the project demonstrates the ability to conduct complex mission prototypes—traditionally reserved for larger, more expensive platforms—within a smaller, more cost-effective framework.

The launch of RSat-P also highlights the increasing accessibility of space for academic and military institutions through commercial launch providers. Its deployment via the Electron launch vehicle underscores a shift toward dedicated small-satellite launch services, allowing for more precise orbital insertion and rapid iteration of hardware like the RSat-P.

## Notable For
- Being a specialized **Repair Satellite Prototype** developed in an academic environment (US Naval Academy).
- Classification as a **CubeSat**, utilizing standardized modular dimensions.
- Launching aboard the **Electron** rocket, a vehicle designed specifically for small satellites.
- Having a specific military academic origin, distinguishing it from commercial CubeSat missions.

## Body
### Development and Classification
RSat-P is a microsatellite constructed by the United States Naval Academy. It is an instance of a **CubeSat**, a class of miniaturized satellites composed of one or more 10 cm sided cubic modules. The project is also identified by the title "Repair Satellite Prototype," suggesting a focus on testing technologies relevant to satellite maintenance or repair in orbit.

### Launch and Orbital Data
The spacecraft was successfully launched on **December 16, 2018**. The launch was conducted using an **Electron** vehicle, a two-stage orbital launch vehicle known for deploying small satellites into low Earth orbit.

**Identifiers and Cataloging:**
*   **COSPAR ID:** 2018-104F
*   **Satellite Catalog Number (SCN):** 43854
*   **Google Knowledge Graph ID:** /g/11fj327pcx

### Visual Documentation
An image of the spacecraft is available in the public domain, documenting the RSat-P hardware developed by the US Navy.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report