# SAOCOM 1A

> first satellite of the SAOCOM constellation

**Wikidata**: [Q57965953](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q57965953)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/saocom-1a

## Summary
SAOCOM 1A is an Earth observation satellite and the first spacecraft of the Argentine SAOCOM constellation. Manufactured by INVAP and operated by the Comisión Nacional de Actividades Espaciales (CONAE), it was launched on October 8, 2018, from Vandenberg Air Force Base. Weighing 1,600 kilograms, it orbits the Earth in a sun-synchronous orbit to conduct observation missions.

## Key Facts
- **Classification:** Earth observation satellite.
- **Constellation:** First satellite of the SAOCOM constellation (Argentina).
- **Launch Date:** October 8, 2018, at 02:21:28 UTC.
- **Launch Vehicle:** Falcon 9 Block 5 (Serial number: B1048.2), contracted by SpaceX.
- **Launch Site:** Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 4 East.
- **Manufacturer:** INVAP.
- **Operator:** Comisión Nacional de Actividades Espaciales (CONAE).
- **Mass:** 1,600 kilograms.
- **Orbit:** Sun-synchronous orbit.
- **COSPAR ID:** 2018-076A.
- **Satellite Catalog Number:** 43641.
- **Power Source:** Spacecraft solar array.

## FAQs
### Q: What is SAOCOM 1A?
A: SAOCOM 1A is the first satellite in the SAOCOM constellation, an Argentine Earth observation program. It is designed to observe Earth from orbit and is operated by Argentina's National Space Activities Commission (CONAE).

### Q: When and how was SAOCOM 1A launched?
A: SAOCOM 1A launched on October 8, 2018, at 02:21:28 UTC. It was deployed using a SpaceX Falcon 9 Block 5 rocket from Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 4 East.

### Q: Who built and operates SAOCOM 1A?
A: The satellite was manufactured by the Argentine company INVAP and is operated by the Comisión Nacional de Actividades Espaciales (CONAE).

## Why It Matters
SAOCOM 1A represents a significant milestone in Argentina's space capabilities as the inaugural unit of the SAOCOM constellation. As an Earth observation satellite specifically designed to monitor the planet from a sun-synchronous orbit, it plays a crucial role in gathering data for the country's national space program. The development by the Argentine manufacturer INVAP highlights the nation's technological proficiency in producing complex space systems.

The mission also marked a notable collaboration in the global space industry, utilizing the current version of SpaceX's Falcon 9 orbital launch vehicle (Block 5) to reach orbit. By successfully entering service on October 8, 2018, SAOCOM 1A established the foundation for the broader SAOCOM network, enabling continuous Earth monitoring. Its operation underscores the importance of dedicated national Earth observation assets for environmental and resource management.

## Notable For
- Being the **first satellite** deployed in the SAOCOM constellation.
- Representing **Argentina** as its country of origin.
- Launching aboard a **Falcon 9 Block 5** (specifically core B1048.2).
- Being manufactured by **INVAP**, a prominent Argentine technology company.
- Weighing **1,600 kg**, a substantial mass for an Earth observation satellite of this class.

## Body
### Development and Manufacturing
SAOCOM 1A is an Earth observation satellite constructed by the Argentine company INVAP. It serves as the initial component of the SAOCOM constellation, a system of Earth-observing satellites developed by Argentina. The spacecraft is operated by the Comisión Nacional de Actividades Espaciales (CONAE), Argentina's space agency.

### Technical Specifications
The satellite has a total mass of 1,600 kilograms. It utilizes a spacecraft solar array as its source of energy. The design and integration were managed by INVAP, with integration activities taking place at facilities such as CEATSA.

### Launch and Deployment
SAOCOM 1A was successfully launched on October 8, 2018. The launch took place at 02:21:28 UTC from the Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 4 East. The launch vehicle used was a Falcon 9 Block 5, identified by the serial number B1048.2, provided by SpaceX as the launch contractor. Following the launch, the satellite was successfully placed into a sun-synchronous orbit.

### Identifiers and Classification
The international designation for the satellite is COSPAR ID 2018-076A, and it is listed in the satellite catalog under number 43641. It is classified as an instance of an Earth observation satellite and functions as a satellite of the Sun in a synchronized orbit.

## References

1. [Source](https://nssdc.gsfc.nasa.gov/nmc/spacecraft/display.action?id=2018-076A)
2. [Source](http://planet4589.org/space/log/launchlog.txt)
3. Jonathan's Space Report