# Saudi-OSCAR 50

> Saudi Arabian amateur radio satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q4120417](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q4120417)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saudi-OSCAR_50)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/saudi-oscar-50

## Summary
Saudi-OSCAR 50 (SO-50) is a Saudi Arabian amateur radio satellite launched in 2002 to support global amateur radio communication. It was deployed using a Dnepr rocket from the Baikonur Cosmodrome and remains operational, providing voice and telemetry transmissions. The satellite is part of a series of OSCAR satellites dedicated to amateur radio use.

## Key Facts
- **Launch Date**: December 20, 2002
- **Launch Vehicle**: Dnepr (a converted Satan ICBM)
- **Launch Site**: Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 109
- **Mass**: 10 kilograms
- **COSPAR ID**: 2002-058C
- **Aliases**: Saudisat 1C, SO-50, أوسكر-٥٠
- **Primary Function**: Amateur radio communication via UHF/VHF transponders
- **Operational Status**: Remains active as of latest updates

## FAQs
### Q: When was Saudi-OSCAR 50 launched?
A: Saudi-OSCAR 50 was launched on December 20, 2002, aboard a Dnepr rocket from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan.

### Q: What is the purpose of Saudi-OSCAR 50?
A: The satellite provides amateur radio operators worldwide with voice communication capabilities and transmits telemetry data for educational and experimental use.

### Q: Is Saudi-OSCAR 50 still operational?
A: Yes, as of the latest available information, SO-50 remains operational, making it one of the longest-serving amateur radio satellites.

## Why It Matters
Saudi-OSCAR 50 is significant as one of the earliest satellites launched by Saudi Arabia, marking the nation’s contribution to global amateur radio infrastructure. It supports communication for amateur radio enthusiasts, fostering technical education and international collaboration. As part of the OSCAR satellite series, it continues the legacy of providing accessible space-based communication platforms. Its longevity—remaining operational over two decades after launch—demonstrates robust design and reliability, ensuring sustained utility for users worldwide.

## Notable For
- **Firsts**: Part of the first constellation of Saudi Arabian amateur radio satellites (Saudisat series).
- **Launch Vehicle**: Utilized the Dnepr rocket, a repurposed Soviet-era ICBM, highlighting cost-effective launch solutions.
- **Transponder Capability**: Features a UHF/VHF linear transponder for voice communication, a key feature for amateur radio operators.
- **Longevity**: Operated for over 20 years, exceeding the lifespan of many small satellites.

## Body
### Launch Details
- **Date**: December 20, 2002
- **Rocket**: Dnepr (a converted R-36M Satan ICBM)
- **Site**: Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 109/95, Kazakhstan

### Technical Specifications
- **Mass**: 10 kg
- **Dimensions**: Compact satellite design typical of small amateur radio satellites
- **Power Source**: Solar panels with battery backup
- **Transponder**: UHF (435 MHz) to VHF (145 MHz) linear transponder for voice communication
- **Telemetry**: Transmits real-time satellite status and environmental data

### Mission and Operations
- **Primary Mission**: Provide amateur radio operators with voice communication relay and telemetry data
- **Orbit**: Sun-synchronous low Earth orbit (LEO)
- **Access**: Open for use by licensed amateur radio operators globally
- **Activation**: Requires a 70 cm uplink signal to activate the transponder for 10-minute communication windows

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report