# Small Astronomy Satellite 2

> NASA space observatory launched on 1972

**Wikidata**: [Q1242087](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q1242087)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Small_Astronomy_Satellite_2)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/small-astronomy-satellite-2

## Summary
Small Astronomy Satellite 2 (SAS-2) was a NASA space observatory launched on November 15, 1972, as part of the Small Astronomy Satellite program. It was designed to study cosmic X-ray sources and gamma-ray bursts, contributing to early astronomical research in high-energy astrophysics.

## Key Facts
- **Launch Date**: November 15, 1972
- **Launch Vehicle**: Scout D-1
- **Launch Site**: Broglio Space Centre
- **Operator**: National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
- **Country of Origin**: United States
- **Mission Duration**: Operated until November 20, 1976, when it re-entered Earth's atmosphere
- **Class**: Space telescope
- **Predecessor/Successor**: Followed by Small Astronomy Satellite 3
- **Alternate Names**: SAS B, Explorer 48, SAS2
- **COSPAR ID**: 1972-091A
- **NSSDCA ID**: 1972-091A

## FAQs
### Q: What was the primary mission of Small Astronomy Satellite 2?
A: SAS-2 was designed to observe cosmic X-ray sources and gamma-ray bursts, advancing early research in high-energy astrophysics.

### Q: Which launch vehicle was used to deploy SAS-2?
A: SAS-2 was launched using the Scout D-1 rocket from the Broglio Space Centre on November 15, 1972.

### Q: How long did SAS-2 remain operational?
A: SAS-2 operated until November 20, 1976, when it re-entered Earth's atmosphere.

### Q: What was SAS-2's relationship to other Small Astronomy Satellites?
A: SAS-2 was followed by Small Astronomy Satellite 3, continuing the program's objectives in X-ray astronomy.

### Q: What were some of SAS-2's alternate names?
A: SAS-2 was also referred to as SAS B, Explorer 48, and SAS2.

## Why It Matters
Small Astronomy Satellite 2 played a crucial role in early X-ray astronomy, contributing to the understanding of cosmic X-ray sources and gamma-ray bursts. As part of NASA's Small Astronomy Satellite program, SAS-2 provided valuable data that helped scientists refine their models of high-energy astrophysical phenomena. Its mission laid the groundwork for future space-based observatories, demonstrating the feasibility of studying the universe in X-ray wavelengths from orbit. Despite its relatively short operational period, SAS-2's findings were significant in advancing the field of astrophysics and setting the stage for more advanced missions.

## Notable For
- **Pioneering X-ray Observations**: SAS-2 was one of the first dedicated space telescopes to study cosmic X-ray sources, providing critical data on high-energy astrophysics.
- **Gamma-Ray Burst Research**: It contributed to early investigations into gamma-ray bursts, enhancing understanding of these energetic cosmic events.
- **Scout D-1 Launch**: The use of the Scout D-1 rocket marked an efficient and cost-effective method for deploying small astronomy satellites.
- **Predecessor to SAS-3**: SAS-2's success paved the way for its successor, Small Astronomy Satellite 3, continuing the program's legacy in X-ray astronomy.
- **Operational Longevity**: Despite its small size, SAS-2 remained operational for over four years, demonstrating the reliability of its design.

## Body
### Mission Overview
Small Astronomy Satellite 2 (SAS-2) was launched on November 15, 1972, aboard a Scout D-1 rocket from the Broglio Space Centre. Operated by NASA, it was part of the Small Astronomy Satellite program, which focused on studying cosmic X-ray sources and gamma-ray bursts. SAS-2's primary mission was to observe high-energy astrophysical phenomena, contributing to early research in the field.

### Technical Specifications
- **Class**: Space telescope
- **Launch Vehicle**: Scout D-1
- **Launch Site**: Broglio Space Centre
- **Operator**: National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
- **Alternate Names**: SAS B, Explorer 48, SAS2
- **COSPAR ID**: 1972-091A
- **NSSDCA ID**: 1972-091A

### Operational Period
SAS-2 remained operational until November 20, 1976, when it re-entered Earth's atmosphere. Its operational lifespan of over four years provided valuable data for astrophysical research.

### Relationship to Other Missions
- **Predecessor/Successor**: SAS-2 was followed by Small Astronomy Satellite 3, continuing the program's objectives in X-ray astronomy.

### Significance
SAS-2's mission was notable for its contributions to X-ray astronomy and gamma-ray burst research. It helped refine scientific understanding of high-energy astrophysical phenomena and demonstrated the effectiveness of small, dedicated space telescopes. The mission's success influenced the design of subsequent astronomy satellites, including SAS-3.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report
2. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013