# SwissCube-1

> Swiss satellite launched in 2009

**Wikidata**: [Q673366](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q673366)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SwissCube-1)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/swisscube-1

## Summary
SwissCube-1 is a CubeSat, a miniaturized satellite made up of 10cm-sided cubic modules, launched in 2009. It was developed by the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL) and marked a significant milestone as Switzerland's first satellite.

## Key Facts
- **Type**: CubeSat (miniaturized satellite)
- **Operator**: Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL)
- **Launch Date**: September 23, 2009
- **Launch Vehicle**: Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV)
- **Launch Site**: Satish Dhawan Space Centre First Launch Pad
- **COSPAR ID**: 2009-051B
- **Classification**: Artificial satellite of the Earth
- **Dimensions**: 10cm-sided cubic modules (standard for CubeSats)
- **Significant Event**: First Swiss satellite to reach orbit

## FAQs
### Q: What is SwissCube-1?
A: SwissCube-1 is a CubeSat, a type of miniaturized satellite, launched by Switzerland in 2009. It was developed by the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL) and represents a milestone in Swiss space exploration.

### Q: Who developed SwissCube-1?
A: SwissCube-1 was developed by the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL), marking Switzerland's first satellite.

### Q: When was SwissCube-1 launched?
A: SwissCube-1 was launched on September 23, 2009, aboard a Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre.

### Q: What type of satellite is SwissCube-1?
A: SwissCube-1 is a CubeSat, a miniaturized satellite made up of 10cm-sided cubic modules, a standard design for small satellites.

### Q: Why is SwissCube-1 significant?
A: SwissCube-1 is significant as it was Switzerland's first satellite, demonstrating the country's capability in space technology and contributing to the growing field of CubeSats.

## Why It Matters
SwissCube-1 holds historical significance as Switzerland's first satellite, marking a pivotal moment in the country's space exploration efforts. As a CubeSat, it represents a cost-effective and accessible approach to satellite technology, aligning with global trends in miniaturized space missions. The satellite's development by the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL) underscores Switzerland's growing role in space research and innovation. SwissCube-1's successful launch and operation contributed to Switzerland's reputation in the space sector, inspiring future projects and collaborations. Its legacy continues to influence educational and research initiatives in Switzerland and beyond, demonstrating the potential of small satellites in advancing scientific and technological advancements.

## Notable For
- **First Swiss Satellite**: SwissCube-1 was Switzerland's first satellite, marking a significant achievement in the country's space program.
- **CubeSat Design**: It utilized the standard CubeSat design, consisting of 10cm-sided cubic modules, making it a representative of the miniaturized satellite trend.
- **EPFL Development**: Developed by the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL), the satellite highlighted the institution's expertise in space technology.
- **PSLV Launch**: Launched aboard the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), SwissCube-1 demonstrated Switzerland's ability to participate in international space missions.
- **Historical Milestone**: SwissCube-1 served as a foundational project for Switzerland's future space endeavors, inspiring further advancements in the field.

## Body
### Overview
SwissCube-1 is a CubeSat, a type of miniaturized satellite, developed by the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL). It was launched on September 23, 2009, aboard a Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre First Launch Pad. The satellite is classified as an artificial satellite of the Earth and is identified by the COSPAR ID 2009-051B.

### Design and Development
SwissCube-1 follows the standard CubeSat design, consisting of 10cm-sided cubic modules. This design allows for cost-effective and efficient satellite construction, making it accessible for educational and research purposes. The satellite was developed by EPFL, a leading institution in Switzerland for space technology and research.

### Launch and Operation
The launch of SwissCube-1 marked a significant milestone for Switzerland, as it was the country's first satellite. The satellite was launched using the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), a reliable and widely used expendable launch system developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation. The launch took place from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre First Launch Pad, a key facility for Indian space missions.

### Significance
SwissCube-1 holds historical importance as Switzerland's first satellite, demonstrating the country's capability in space exploration. The project contributed to the growing field of CubeSats, which have become increasingly popular for their affordability and versatility. SwissCube-1's successful operation and development inspired future space initiatives in Switzerland and beyond.

### Legacy
SwissCube-1's legacy continues to influence educational and research initiatives in Switzerland. The satellite's development and launch highlighted the potential of small satellites in advancing scientific and technological advancements. The project also strengthened Switzerland's position in the global space community, fostering collaborations and inspiring further innovations in space technology.

## References

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