# SumbandilaSat

> South African micro Earth observation satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q7637040](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q7637040)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SumbandilaSat)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/sumbandilasat

## Summary
SumbandilaSat is a South African micro Earth observation satellite that also functions as an amateur radio satellite. Operated by Stellenbosch University, it was successfully launched on September 17, 2009. The satellite was delivered into orbit by a Soyuz-2.1b rocket launched from the Baikonur Cosmodrome.

## Key Facts
- **Entity Type:** South African micro Earth observation satellite and amateur radio satellite.
- **Operator:** Stellenbosch University.
- **Launch Date:** September 17, 2009.
- **Launch Vehicle:** Soyuz-2.1b.
- **Launch Site:** Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 31.
- **COSPAR ID:** 2009-049F.
- **Satellite Catalog Number (SCN):** 35870.
- **Significant Event:** Rocket launch occurring on September 17, 2009, at Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 31.

## FAQs
### Q: What type of satellite is SumbandilaSat?
A: SumbandilaSat is a micro Earth observation satellite. It is also classified as an amateur radio satellite capable of transmitting amateur radio signals.

### Q: Who operates SumbandilaSat?
A: The satellite is operated by Stellenbosch University.

### Q: When and how was SumbandilaSat launched?
A: The satellite was launched on September 17, 2009, using a Soyuz-2.1b rocket from the Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 31.

## Why It Matters
SumbandilaSat represents a significant step in South Africa's space capabilities, serving as a micro Earth observation platform. Its operation by Stellenbosch University highlights the role of academic institutions in managing active space assets. By combining Earth observation with amateur radio capabilities, the satellite serves a dual purpose: providing remote sensing data and facilitating amateur radio communication globally. Its launch aboard a Soyuz-2.1b rocket marks a specific technical collaboration in the deployment of the satellite into orbit.

## Notable For
- Being a South African micro satellite dedicated to Earth observation.
- Functioning dually as an amateur radio satellite.
- Being operated by a major academic institution, Stellenbosch University.
- Launching aboard the Soyuz-2.1b version of the Soyuz-2 rocket.

## Body

### Mission and Classification
SumbandilaSat is identified as a micro Earth observation satellite. In addition to its primary remote sensing role, it is classified as an amateur radio satellite, allowing it to transmit signals for the amateur radio community. The satellite is officially cataloged under the COSPAR ID 2009-049F and the Satellite Catalog Number 35870.

### Ownership and Operation
The responsibility for operating SumbandilaSat lies with Stellenbosch University. This aligns the satellite's management with academic research and engineering capabilities found within the university system.

### Launch Details
The satellite's deployment is defined by a significant rocket launch event.
- **Date:** The launch took place on September 17, 2009.
- **Location:** The launch originated from Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 31.
- **Vehicle:** The launch vehicle used was the Soyuz-2.1b, a specific version of the Soyuz-2 rocket.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report