Geosynchronous Orbit (GEO)
Understanding the unique orbital sweet spot that keeps satellites perfectly positioned above Earth
GAIA (39479)
COSPAR: 2013-074A | Alt Name: Gaia
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
December 19, 2013
Launch Site
FRGUI
Launch Pad
ELS
Launch Vehicle
Soyuz-ST-B
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
39479
International Designator
2013-074A
Decay Date
Unknown
Basic Satellite Info
Name
GAIA
Alternative Name
Gaia
Type
Payload
Status
Non-operational
Owner
ESA
Country
European Space Agency
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The GAIA satellite, also known as Gaia, is an astrometry mission operated by ESA (European Space Agency). Launched on December 19, 2013, from the Guiana Space Center using a Soyuz-ST-B launch vehicle, it has been active since its deployment. The spacecraft measures 4 meters in length and has a diameter of 3 meters with a span of 9.5 meters. It weighs approximately 1,392 kilograms without fuel and had an initial launch mass of 1,934 kilograms. Gaia is equipped with two astrometric telescopes and one spectroscopic telescope for precise star measurements. Its power source consists of solar cells complemented by batteries. The spacecraft's design intended a five-year lifetime, but it continues to operate beyond this period.
Physical Characteristics
Length
4
Diameter
3
Span
9.5
Dry Mass
1392
Launch Mass
1934
Shape
Hex cyl + disk
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Gaia
Purpose
Astrometry
Mission
Astrometry
Manufacturer
ASTT
Life Expectancy
5 years (design); still active
Bus
Gaia
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
AOCS
Equipment
2 Astro telescopes, 1 Spectro telescope
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 2 Apr 2025
DARPA's accidental SpaceX detection highlights Earth as a natural sensor, while SpaceX's Fram2 launches into a polar orbit. Helsinki's defense budget rise hints at increased military satellite activity.
Demystifying the USSPACECOM Two-Line Element Set Format
Discover the history and significance of Two-Line Element Sets (TLEs) in satellite tracking. Dive into their components, applications, and how they are evolving to meet future space challenges.
Space Brief 18 Dec 2025
Today's updates cover Rocket Lab's launch for the U.S. Space Force, Digantara's major funding round, and discussions on national security in space.
Space Brief 13 Jul 2025
Today's Space Brief covers key topics including new defense mandates for space, Firefly Aerospace's public filing, major funding for Varda Space Industries, and updates on SpaceX's Crew-11 mission and a mystery satellite launch.
Space Brief 28 May 2025
Today's briefing covers SpaceX's ambitious launch and temporary setback with their Super Heavy booster, adjustments in South African telecommunications laws influenced by Starlink, and the U.S. Navy's strategic shifts amidst changes in unmanned combatant acquisitions.
When Will SpaceX Go Public?
As SpaceX continues to make groundbreaking advancements in the space industry, investors are eagerly anticipating the company's potential IPO. Learn about the factors influencing SpaceX's decision to go public and the estimated timeline for this highly anticipated event.
X Report 8 Dec 2025
SpaceX faces weather challenges as it scrubs the launch of its 3,000th Starlink satellite. Meanwhile, Elon Musk discusses advancing to a Type II civilization in an engaging social media post.