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FLYING LAPTOP

Technology Demonstrator / Earth Observation · University of Stuttgart

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Named for its laptop-like form factor, this German small satellite was built by students at the University of Stuttgart. It carries a multi-spectral Earth imager and tests new on-board computing systems for the harsh radiation environment of low Earth orbit. Flying Laptop represents Germany's university tradition of producing flight-heritage technology that feeds directly into commercial and scientific missions.

Its orbit

Orbit
Low Earth Orbitcan appear as a fast-moving star at dawn or dusk
Altitude
344–359 mi (554–578 km)
Inclination
97.5°
One orbit
95.8 minutes15.0 orbits a day
NORAD ID
42831
Int’l designator
2017-042G
Launched
2017

Orbital elements from CelesTrak, as of 22 Sep 2026.

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