Starlette
Diamant BP4
National Center of Space Research
Mission
Starlette
- Type: Earth Science
- Orbit: Low Earth Orbit
Passive French satellite dedicated to geodetic and geophysical studies
Location
Diamant Launch Area
Guiana Space Centre, French Guiana
Diamant Launch Area has witnessed the launch of 8 rockets, including 8 orbital launch attempts. While Guiana Space Centre, French Guiana, has been the site for 331 rocket launches.
The Guiana Space Centre is a European spaceport to the northwest of Kourou in French Guiana, a region of France in South America. Kourou is located at a latitude of 5°. In operation since 1968, it is a suitable location for a spaceport because of its equatorial location and open sea to the east.
Rocket
Société d'étude et de réalisation d'engins balistiques Diamant BP4
The Diamant rocket (Diamant is French for "diamond") was the first exclusively French expendable launch system and at the same time the first satellite launcher not built by either the United States or USSR. As such, it has been referred to as being a key predecessor for all subsequent European launcher projects.
Agency
National Center of Space Research
The National Center of Space Research, or CNES, is a French National Agency in charge of France's space program. In partnership with the US and Russia, they have put 10 people in space. CNES works in tandem with the larger ESA to develop the Ariane 5 and work on other probes and satellites. They are working with Germany to develop a cheaper and more efficient reusable rocket, which hopefully will be ready to fly by 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the Diamant BP4 launch scheduled?
The National Center of Space Research Diamant BP4 launch carrying the Starlette mission was scheduled for:
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Where did the Diamant BP4 launch from?
The National Center of Space Research Diamant BP4 rocket launched from Diamant Launch Area at Guiana Space Centre, French Guiana. The Guiana Space Centre is a European spaceport to the northwest of Kourou in French Guiana, a region of France in South America. Kourou is located at a latitude of 5°. In operation since 1968, it is a suitable location for a spaceport because of its equatorial location and open sea to the east.
What rocket was used for the Starlette mission?
The Starlette mission launched aboard a National Center of Space Research Diamant BP4 rocket. The Diamant rocket (Diamant is French for "diamond") was the first exclusively French expendable launch system and at the same time the first satellite launcher not built by either the United States or USSR. As such, it has been referred to as being a key predecessor for all subsequent European launcher projects. Detailed rocket specifications and performance data are available in the rocket details above.
What weather conditions could have delayed this launch?
The Diamant BP4 launch could have been delayed by various weather conditions including lightning within 10 nautical miles, high winds (especially upper-level winds), thick cloud layers, precipitation, and poor visibility. Weather must be favorable at the launch site, downrange landing zones, and abort landing sites.
How can I get updates if the launch is delayed?
This page is updated in real-time with the latest launch status, including any delays or scrubs. You can also check our space launch schedule for the most current information. Enable push notifications through our mobile app to receive instant alerts about launch status changes, weather holds, or new launch times. We recommend following official live streams for the most immediate range updates.
