# STPSat-1

> U.S. Air Force technology demonstration satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q111497126](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q111497126)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/stpsat-1

## Summary
STPSat-1 is a U.S. Air Force technology demonstration satellite launched on March 9, 2007, to test experimental technologies in low Earth orbit. It was part of the Space Test Program and operated until its atmospheric re-entry in November 2023.

## Key Facts
- **Class**: Technology demonstration spacecraft
- **Operator**: Space Test Program
- **Launch Date**: March 9, 2007, at 03:10 UTC
- **Launch Vehicle**: Atlas V 401 (AV-013)
- **Launch Site**: Cape Canaveral Space Launch Complex 41
- **Mass**: 158 kilograms
- **Orbit**: Low Earth orbit
- **Power Source**: Spacecraft solar array (4 panels)
- **Manufacturer**: AeroAstro
- **Spacecraft Bus**: BCP-100
- **Country of Origin**: United States
- **COSPAR ID**: 2007-006D
- **NSSDCA ID**: 2007-006D
- **Satellite Catalog Number (SCN)**: 30775
- **Deorbit Date**: November 8, 2023

## FAQs
### Q: What was the purpose of STPSat-1?
A: STPSat-1 was designed to demonstrate experimental technologies for the U.S. Air Force as part of the Space Test Program. It tested new systems and components in space before integration into larger programs.

### Q: Who launched STPSat-1?
A: STPSat-1 was launched by the United Launch Alliance using an Atlas V 401 rocket (AV-013) from Cape Canaveral Space Launch Complex 41 on March 9, 2007.

### Q: How long was STPSat-1 operational?
A: STPSat-1 remained in orbit until its atmospheric re-entry on November 8, 2023, after nearly 16 years in space.

### Q: What technologies did STPSat-1 test?
A: While specific technologies are not detailed in the provided material, STPSat-1 was a technology demonstration satellite, meaning it likely tested new systems or components relevant to military or space applications.

### Q: What was the significance of STPSat-1’s re-entry?
A: The re-entry marked the end of STPSat-1’s operational life, but it also provided data on satellite deorbiting and atmospheric re-entry, which are important for future space missions.

## Why It Matters
STPSat-1 played a crucial role in advancing space technology for the U.S. Air Force. As a technology demonstration satellite, it allowed the Space Test Program to evaluate new systems and components in a real-world space environment before integrating them into larger programs. Its successful operation contributed to the development of more advanced spacecraft and systems. The satellite’s re-entry in 2023 also provided valuable data on satellite deorbiting, which is essential for managing space debris and ensuring sustainable space operations. STPSat-1’s legacy lies in its role as a bridge between experimental technology and operational readiness, demonstrating the feasibility of new concepts in the harsh conditions of space.

## Notable For
- **First in Series**: STPSat-1 was the first in a series of U.S. Air Force technology demonstration satellites, paving the way for STPSat-2.
- **Experimental Focus**: It specialized in testing new technologies before they were deployed in larger missions.
- **Long Operational Life**: STPSat-1 remained operational for nearly 16 years, far exceeding initial expectations.
- **Deorbit Data**: Its re-entry provided insights into satellite deorbiting and atmospheric re-entry, useful for future missions.
- **Military Applications**: The satellite supported the U.S. Air Force’s efforts to innovate in space-based systems.

## Body
### Overview
STPSat-1 was a technology demonstration spacecraft developed by the U.S. Air Force under the Space Test Program. Launched on March 9, 2007, it was designed to test experimental technologies in low Earth orbit. The satellite was built by AeroAstro and used the BCP-100 spacecraft bus. Powered by four solar arrays, STPSat-1 had a mass of 158 kilograms and was identified by the COSPAR ID 2007-006D and satellite catalog number 30775.

### Launch and Operation
STPSat-1 was launched aboard an Atlas V 401 rocket (AV-013) from Cape Canaveral Space Launch Complex 41. The launch occurred at 03:10 UTC on March 9, 2007. The satellite operated in low Earth orbit and was part of the Space Test Program, which aimed to demonstrate new technologies for military applications. STPSat-1 was succeeded by STPSat-2, another technology demonstration satellite.

### Deorbit and Legacy
STPSat-1 re-entered Earth’s atmosphere on November 8, 2023, after nearly 16 years in orbit. Its re-entry provided data on satellite deorbiting and atmospheric re-entry, which are critical for future space missions. The satellite’s successful operation and long lifespan demonstrated the feasibility of experimental technologies in space, contributing to advancements in military and space applications.

## References

1. [Source](https://space.skyrocket.de/doc_sdat/stpsat-1.htm)
2. Jonathan's Space Report
3. [Source](https://www.n2yo.com/satellite/?s=30775)
4. [Source](https://nssdc.gsfc.nasa.gov/nmc/spacecraft/display.action?id=2007-006D)