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Phase system
The AMSAT Phase system describes an amateur satellite based upon its capabilities or mode of operation and roughly parallel the development of amateur satellites.

Phase 1: No solar cells (battery-powered only), short-lived, technology test-bed. Must be able to orbit to be classified as a satellite.

Phase 2: Long life using solar cells, communications capabilities, Low Earth Orbit.

Phase 3: Long life, more powerful communications, telemetry and command systems. Highly elliptical orbit, usually a Molniya orbit; usually the initial orbit is a geostationary transfer orbit, onboard propulsion systems boosting it to its final orbit. Because of the highly elliptical orbit, the satellite remains over an area for long periods of time, allowing amateurs longer contacts through the satellite.

Phase 4: Amateur satellite in geostationary orbit. Phase 4 amateur satellites have been designed, but not built, though they have received favorable attention.

Phase 5: Spacecraft capable of lunar or planetary missions.