# SatNOGS

> software and hardware platform for creating a satellite ground network station

**Wikidata**: [Q22084815](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q22084815)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SatNOGS)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/satnogs

Here’s the structured knowledge entry for **SatNOGS**:

---

## Summary  
SatNOGS is an open-source software and hardware platform designed to create a decentralized satellite ground station network. It enables individuals and organizations to build low-cost stations for tracking and communicating with satellites. The project combines open hardware designs with community-driven development to democratize access to satellite data.

## Key Facts  
- **Type**: Free software, open hardware, community project, crowdsourced project  
- **Launch Date**: April 2014  
- **License**: Affero General Public License (software), CERN Open Hardware Licence (hardware)  
- **Programming Language**: Python  
- **Social Media**: Twitter (@satnogs), Facebook (satnogs), YouTube (satnogsorgproject)  
- **Followers**: 5,971 (Twitter, as of January 2021)  
- **Source Code**: Hosted on GitLab ([link](https://gitlab.com/librespacefoundation/satnogs))  
- **Aliases**: Satellite Networked Open Ground Station  
- **Logo**: ![SatNOGS Logo](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:FilePath/SatNOGS-logo-vertical-black.png)  

## FAQs  
### Q: What is SatNOGS used for?  
A: SatNOGS is used to build and operate ground stations for tracking and receiving data from satellites, particularly cubesats and other small satellites.  

### Q: Is SatNOGS open-source?  
A: Yes, both the software (under AGPL) and hardware designs (under CERN Open Hardware Licence) are open-source and freely modifiable.  

### Q: How can I contribute to SatNOGS?  
A: Contributions can be made via its GitLab repository, community forums, or by building and deploying a ground station using its open designs.  

## Why It Matters  
SatNOGS addresses the challenge of limited ground station infrastructure for small satellites by creating a decentralized, crowdsourced network. By leveraging open-source principles, it lowers barriers to entry for hobbyists, researchers, and educational institutions. The project fosters global collaboration, enabling real-time satellite tracking and data collection without reliance on proprietary systems. Its impact extends to democratizing space technology and supporting the growing small satellite industry.  

## Notable For  
- **Decentralized Network**: First open-source, community-driven global ground station network.  
- **Low-Cost Design**: Uses affordable, off-the-shelf components for accessibility.  
- **Dual Licensing**: Combines AGPL for software and CERN OHL for hardware.  
- **Python-Based**: Relies on Python for flexibility and ease of development.  

## Body  
### Overview  
SatNOGS is a platform for building satellite ground stations, combining open-source software and hardware. It was launched in April 2014 and is maintained by the Libre Space Foundation.  

### Technical Specifications  
- **Software License**: Affero General Public License (AGPL)  
- **Hardware License**: CERN Open Hardware Licence  
- **Primary Language**: Python  
- **Source Code**: Hosted on GitLab ([Libre Space Foundation](https://gitlab.com/librespacefoundation/satnogs))  

### Community and Reach  
- **Social Media**: Active on Twitter (@satnogs), Facebook, and YouTube.  
- **Followers**: 5,971 on Twitter (as of January 2021).  
- **Collaboration**: Encourages global participation via open-source contributions.  

### Hardware Design  
- **Open Hardware**: Designs are publicly available for modification and replication.  
- **Accessibility**: Focuses on affordability and ease of assembly.  

### Impact  
- Supports small satellite operators by providing a scalable ground station solution.  
- Enables educational and research institutions to participate in satellite communications.  

--- 

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

## References

1. [Source](https://www.openhub.net/p/satnogs/analyses/latest/languages_summary)
2. [Source](https://github.com/satnogs/satnogs-rotator-controller/commit/3be44b4)
3. [Source](https://satnogs.org/2015/03/satnogs-socis2015/)
4. YouTube API