# small satellite

> artificial satellite generally less than 1,200 kg

**Wikidata**: [Q1580082](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q1580082)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Small_satellite)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/small-satellite

## Summary
A small satellite is an artificial satellite generally weighing less than 1,200 kg. It is a miniaturized spacecraft class used for various space missions and applications.

## Key Facts
- Weighs less than 1,200 kg
- Classified as a spacecraft class and subclass of artificial satellite and miniature object
- Follows the minisatellite class in size classification
- Has 24 sitelinks across Wikipedia languages
- Known by aliases including smallsat, miniaturized satellite, and satélite pequeño
- Has a Library of Congress authority ID: sh2001000772
- Featured in Commons category: Small satellites

## FAQs
### Q: What is the weight limit for a small satellite?
A: A small satellite is generally defined as an artificial satellite weighing less than 1,200 kg.

### Q: How does a small satellite differ from a minisatellite?
A: Small satellites are larger than minisatellites, which are generally less than 500 to 600 kg, but smaller than traditional satellites.

### Q: What are some examples of small satellites?
A: Examples include CubeSats, EOS-02, KITSUNE, and CanX-4/5, which are used for various technology demonstrations and Earth observation missions.

## Why It Matters
Small satellites have revolutionized space access by dramatically reducing the cost and complexity of space missions. Their compact size and lower mass make them more affordable to launch, enabling universities, startups, and developing nations to participate in space exploration and Earth observation. These satellites serve critical roles in communications, scientific research, technology demonstration, and Earth monitoring, democratizing space capabilities that were once exclusive to major space agencies and large corporations. The small satellite revolution has accelerated innovation in space technology and created new business models for commercial space applications.

## Notable For
- Cost-effective alternative to traditional large satellites
- Enables rapid technology demonstration and testing
- Supports educational and research opportunities for universities
- Facilitates constellation deployments for global coverage
- Drives innovation in miniaturized space technology

## Body
### Classification and Characteristics
Small satellites are defined by their mass, typically under 1,200 kg, making them significantly smaller than traditional satellites. They represent a spacecraft class that includes various subcategories based on size and mass, from CubeSats to larger smallsat platforms.

### Applications and Uses
These satellites serve multiple purposes including Earth observation, communications, scientific research, and technology demonstration. Their compact size allows for deployment in constellations, providing enhanced coverage and redundancy compared to single large satellites.

### Development and Innovation
The small satellite sector has driven significant advancements in miniaturized technology, including propulsion systems, power generation, and communication equipment. This has led to improved capabilities while maintaining the size and cost advantages.

### Industry Impact
Small satellites have transformed the space industry by enabling new business models and reducing barriers to entry. They support both commercial ventures and academic research, creating a more diverse and innovative space ecosystem.

## Schema Markup
```json
{
  "@context": "https://schema.org",
  "@type": "Thing",
  "name": "small satellite",
  "description": "artificial satellite generally less than 1,200 kg",
  "sameAs": [
    "https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q4837690",
    "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Small_satellite"
  ],
  "additionalType": "spacecraft class"
}

## References

1. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
2. BabelNet
3. National Library of Israel Names and Subjects Authority File