The rate of satellite launches has been growing since the first satellites in 1957, and it is not uncommon for there to be more than 150 launches per year, each deploying one or more satellites. Only a small proportion of these are small satellites with a weight less than 500kg, but nevertheless some restrictions have been placed on the satellites listed in these pages. By definition an artificial Earth satellite is any man-made object in orbit around the Earth. In the satellite lists presented here, only satellites performing experimental, scientific, commercial, or military functions are listed, and typically the objects below are excluded unless there of specific interest:

 

Satellites with a mass greater than 500kg.

Rockets, and any parts thereof. (e.g. debris)
Experiments launched from the space shuttle, which are later retrieved.

We will endeavour to list basic information on all known satellites with a mass less than 100kg, including:

Satellite name, constructor(s), and user(s).

A description of satellite bus, payloads and experiments

Weight, and dimensions.

Launch date, site, and orbit.

A list of achievement, current status, or mission summary.

Logo, pictures, or other relevant information.