X Report 14 Jan 2025
SpaceX sets a new reusability record and continues its busy launch schedule with multiple Starlink missions.
MIGHTYSAT 1 (25551)
COSPAR: 1998-069C | Alt Name: Mightysat 1
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
December 4, 1998
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC39A
Launch Vehicle
Space Shuttle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
25551
International Designator
1998-069C
Decay Date
11/21/1999
Basic Satellite Info
Name
MIGHTYSAT 1
Alternative Name
Mightysat 1
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
AFRL
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
MIGHTYSAT 1, also known as Mightysat 1, is an experimental satellite launched on December 4, 1998, from Launch Pad LC39A at the AFETR site using a Space Shuttle launch vehicle. This Minisat-deriv configuration satellite was manufactured by OSCM and operated by AFRL for its primary purpose of experimental research. It has dimensions of 0.5 meters in length and diameter with a span of 0.7 meters, and it weighed 68 kilograms both at launch and dry mass. The satellite is equipped with equipment such as MAPLE, SMARD, MPID, ASCE, and ACS, powered by solar cells and batteries. Its shape consists of a Hex Cyl + Ant design with an RCS (Radiating Cross Section) value of 0.2453 square meters. MIGHTYSAT 1's mission lasted for approximately one year from December 15, 1998, until its operational end.
Physical Characteristics
Length
0.5
Diameter
0.5
Span
0.7
Dry Mass
68
Launch Mass
68
Shape
Hex Cyl + Ant
Radar Cross Section
0.2453
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
STP P97-1
Purpose
Experimental
Mission
Experimental
Manufacturer
OSCM
Life Expectancy
1 year
Bus
Minisat-deriv
Configuration
PicoStar
Motor
None
Equipment
MAPLE, SMARD, MPID, ASCE, ACS
Power System
Solar cells, batteries
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
Satellite Articles
View All Posts »Learn more about satellites and other related topics.
Space Brief 14 Aug 2025
Today's brief covers the Vulcan Centaur's first mission, military space automation insights, and the retirement reflections of a Space Force leader.
Space Brief 26 Nov 2024
Today's headlines include new launch schedules, military industrial base challenges, and NASA's exploration of historic Cold War sites. Discover significant space events and satellite insights.
Space Brief 24 Aug 2025
Today's brief covers SpaceX's secretive military launch, advancements in nuclear fusion, and groundbreaking observations of dying stars and supernovae.
Space Brief 5 May 2025
Today's brief covers the Army's move to create a space career field for enlisted soldiers, Terran Orbital's involvement in a Space Force tech program, advancements in missile warning systems, a first flight test by Inversion Space, and more.
Space Brief 13 Nov 2025
Delve into the latest on military AI leadership debates, Wedgetail funding increases, and the Army's Short Range Reconnaissance Program advancements. Explore how these developments influence satellite tracking and defense initiatives.
X Report 20 Mar 2025
SpaceX successfully rotates Crew-9 and Crew-10 on the ISS and launches new Starlink satellites with direct-to-cell capability.
Space Brief 8 Jan 2025
Today's highlights include China's launch of Shijian-25 for on-orbit refueling tests, Pentagon's investment in defense technologies, and key military upgrades.