PISat student satellite all set for launch in July

The PES Imaging Satellite (PISat), a joint initiative of 250 students and the Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro) to place the first Indian nanosatellite developed by students into space, will finally be launched in July.

Students of PES University have spearheaded the design, development, fabrication and testing functions of the satellite. Five other colleges are also involved in the programme. PES University has spent Rs 1.25 crore on the project.

After stringent performance and quality tests by an expert committee, the nanosatellite was formally handed over to Isro at a function on April 20, said a release from the university. The PISat is a three-axis stabilised imaging nanosatellite weighing about 5 kg and generates 13 watts power with S-band RF communication. The major subsystems are an imaging camera to provide earth imagery with 80-metre resolution, on-board computer (OBC), Attitude Determination and Control System (ADCS), RF communication system with S-Band frequency, telemetry, tele-command, thermal system, structure and electrical power system (EPS). The ground software was developed for on ground orbit determination essential for mission operations.

The nanosatellite was subjected to critical design and stringent quality reviews at the satellite centre by a committee constituted by Isro. Testing at the university’s research facility included card level testing, interface testing, integrated satellite level testing, calibrating camera and finalising parameters. Testing at Isro’s facility covered calibration of sun sensor and magnetometer, vibration test and thermovacuum test. The satisfactory performance of the prototype paved way for the launch on C35 flight of Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle in July 2016.