The SS-520-5 is a small-scale orbital launch vehicle developed by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA). It is part of the SS-520 series, which originally started as a sounding rocket in the 1960s and was later adapted to serve as an orbital launch vehicle. The SS-520-5 is notable for being the smallest orbital launcher in the world.
Key Features:
- Height: 9.54 meters (31 ft 3.5 in)
- Diameter: 0.52 meters (1 ft 8 in)
- Weight: 2,600 kg (5,732 lb)
- Payload capacity: 140 kg (309 lb)
- Apogee: 800 km (497 mi)
- First launch: February 3, 2018
The SS-520-5 is based on the SS-520 sounding rocket, with the addition of a third stage and guidance and control hardware for orbital insertion. It was developed to provide an affordable and versatile launch platform for small satellites.
The development and use of small-scale launchers like the SS-520-5 contribute to the growing trend of miniaturization in the satellite industry. These small launch vehicles are capable of deploying smaller payloads at a lower cost, making space more accessible for educational, research, and commercial purposes.
According to the Internet
