# SMDC-ONE 1

> US Army satellite built for testing experimental communication systems

**Wikidata**: [Q14083971](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q14083971)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/smdc-one-1

## Summary
SMDC-ONE 1 is a U.S. Army satellite designed to test experimental communication systems, launched in 2010 as part of a technology demonstration mission. It is classified as both a CubeSat and a communications satellite, built to the compact 10cm modular standard. The satellite was deployed via a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, marking its role in advancing military communication capabilities.

## Key Facts
- **Launch Date**: December 8, 2010
- **Launch Vehicle**: SpaceX Falcon 9
- **Launch Site**: Cape Canaveral Space Launch Complex 40
- **Satellite Catalog Number (SCN)**: 37246
- **COSPAR ID**: 2010-066C
- **Classifications**: CubeSat, communications satellite
- **Operator**: U.S. Army
- **Primary Mission**: Testing experimental communication systems

## FAQs
### Q: What was the purpose of SMDC-ONE 1?
A: SMDC-ONE 1 was launched to test experimental communication systems for the U.S. Army, focusing on demonstrating new technologies in a compact satellite format.

### Q: When and how was SMDC-ONE 1 launched?
A: The satellite was launched on December 8, 2010, aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral Space Launch Complex 40.

### Q: What type of satellite is SMDC-ONE 1?
A: It is classified as both a CubeSat (due to its 10cm modular design) and a communications satellite, reflecting its dual role as a technology testbed.

## Why It Matters
SMDC-ONE 1 represents an early effort by the U.S. Army to leverage CubeSat technology for rapid, cost-effective testing of experimental communication systems. Its launch on a SpaceX Falcon 9 highlighted growing partnerships between the military and commercial space providers, paving the way for future small-satellite missions. By demonstrating the viability of compact satellites for military applications, SMDC-ONE 1 contributed to advancements in secure, adaptable communication technologies critical for modern defense operations. This mission underscored the shift toward agile, low-cost space solutions to meet evolving battlefield needs.

## Notable For
- First CubeSat developed by the U.S. Army for communication technology testing.
- Utilized SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket during its 2010 debut, showcasing commercial launch integration.
- Part of a broader initiative to explore low-cost, rapid-deployment satellite systems for military use.
- Demonstrated the potential of miniaturized satellites for experimental payloads.

## Body
### Launch Details
SMDC-ONE 1 launched on **December 8, 2010**, at **Cape Canaveral Space Launch Complex 40** aboard a **SpaceX Falcon 9** rocket. The mission marked one of the early commercial launches for SpaceX, with the satellite designated as **COSPAR ID 2010-066C** and **Satellite Catalog Number 37246**.

### Technical Specifications
- **Classification**: CubeSat (10cm-sided cubic modules) and communications satellite.
- **Operator**: U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command (SMDC).
- **Mission Type**: Technology demonstration for experimental communication systems.

### Mission Objective
The primary goal of SMDC-ONE 1 was to test innovative communication technologies in a low-cost, small-satellite platform. As a CubeSat, it adhered to the standardized 10cm modular design, enabling efficient deployment and testing of new systems without the complexity of larger satellites.

### Legacy
While specific mission outcomes are not detailed in the source material, SMDC-ONE 1’s launch represented a milestone in the U.S. Army’s exploration of CubeSat capabilities. Its use of a commercial Falcon 9 rocket underscored the military’s increasing reliance on public-private partnerships for space technology development. The mission laid groundwork for future small-satellite initiatives focused on resilient, adaptable communication networks.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report