# Shizuku

> JAXA Earth observation satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q9336086](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q9336086)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/shizuku-q9336086

## Summary
Shizuku, also known as GCOM-W1 or Global Change Observation Mission – Water, is an Earth observation satellite operated by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA). It is designed to observe Earth from orbit as part of the Global Change Observation Mission. The satellite carries the AMSR2 scientific instrument to gather data on global environmental changes.

## Key Facts
- **Operator:** Operated by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA).
- **Aliases:** Also known as GCOM-W1 and Global Change Observation Mission – Water.
- **Classification:** An Earth observation satellite.
- **Launch Date:** Launched on May 17, 2012, at 16:39.
- **Launch Vehicle:** Launched aboard an H-IIA (H-IIA-21) rocket.
- **Launch Site:** Launched from Yoshinobu Launch Complex Launch Pad 1.
- **Mass:** Has a launch weight of 1990 kilograms.
- **Scientific Instrument:** Carries the AMSR2 scientific instrument.
- **Mission Context:** Part of the Global Change Observation Mission and the A-Train satellite constellation.
- **Country of Origin:** Japan.

## FAQs
### Q: What is Shizuku?
A: Shizuku, also known as GCOM-W1, is an Earth observation satellite operated by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA). It is designed to observe Earth from orbit as part of the Global Change Observation Mission.

### Q: When was Shizuku launched?
A: Shizuku was launched on May 17, 2012, at 16:39. The launch took place from Yoshinobu Launch Complex Launch Pad 1 using an H-IIA rocket.

### Q: What scientific instrument does Shizuku carry?
A: Shizuku carries the AMSR2 scientific instrument. This instrument is crucial for its mission of observing Earth's environment.

### Q: Who operates the Shizuku satellite?
A: The Shizuku satellite is operated by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA).

## Why It Matters
Shizuku, officially known as GCOM-W1, plays a vital role in monitoring Earth's environment as an Earth observation satellite. Operated by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), it is a key component of the Global Change Observation Mission, which aims to provide continuous and long-term observations of global environmental changes. By carrying the AMSR2 scientific instrument, Shizuku contributes crucial data related to water cycles, such as sea surface temperature, precipitation, and snow and ice cover. This information is essential for understanding climate change, improving weather forecasting, and managing water resources. Furthermore, its inclusion in the A-Train satellite constellation allows for synergistic observations with other satellites, enhancing the overall scientific return and providing a more comprehensive view of Earth's systems. Shizuku's mission underscores Japan's commitment to advancing Earth science and contributing to global efforts in environmental monitoring and climate research.

## Notable For
- Being a key component of the Global Change Observation Mission (GCOM).
- Its inclusion in the A-Train satellite constellation, allowing for coordinated observations.
- Carrying the AMSR2 scientific instrument for detailed environmental monitoring.
- Being an Earth observation satellite operated by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA).
- Its specific focus on water-related observations, as indicated by its alias "Global Change Observation Mission – Water."

## Body

### Overview
Shizuku, officially designated GCOM-W1, is an Earth observation satellite. The satellite is operated by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA). It is a part of the larger Global Change Observation Mission. Shizuku also contributes to the A-Train satellite constellation, a series of satellites that fly in formation to provide complementary data.

### Technical Specifications
- **Aliases:** The satellite is also known by its aliases GCOM-W1 and Global Change Observation Mission – Water.
- **Mass:** Shizuku has a launch weight of 1990 kilograms.
- **Country of Origin:** The satellite originates from Japan.
- **Scientific Instrument:** It carries the AMSR2 (Advanced Microwave Scanning Radiometer 2) scientific instrument.
- **Identifiers:**
    - SCN: 38337
    - COSPAR ID: 2012-025A
    - NSSDC ID: 2012-025A

### Launch Details
- **Launch Date and Time:** Shizuku was launched on May 17, 2012, at 16:39.
- **Launch Vehicle:** The satellite was launched aboard an H-IIA rocket, specifically the H-IIA-21 variant.
- **Launch Site:** The launch originated from Yoshinobu Launch Complex Launch Pad 1.
- The launch itself was recorded as a significant event for the mission.

### Mission Context
As an Earth observation satellite, Shizuku is specifically designed to observe Earth from orbit. Its primary mission contributes to the understanding and monitoring of global environmental changes, with a particular focus implied by its "Global Change Observation Mission – Water" alias.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report