PES University students set to launch second microsatellite

The students of PES University are all set to launch their second microsatellite (RSAT) on February 28 with the support from the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).

The first such satellite was launched by PES University students in the year 2016. For second satellite, RSAT, around eight students were involved along with seven faculty members in a programme headed by senior faculty Dr Sambashiva Rao.

This RSAT is configured and being developed at PES University for carrying satellite-based automatic identification system (SB-AIS) payload for monitoring the ships on high seas and providing vital information about ship movement.

In a press conference on Wednesday, Prof Mr Doreswamy, Chancellor PES University said, "Based on the successful completion of the project carried out for NRB, PES university proposes to develop SB-AIS technology with an aim not only to create opportunity for students to gain practical experience in space technology but also to help the country to be at par with foreign countries in SB-AIS applications as well."

As per those involved in the development of the satellite, it will be launched into about 500 km polar sun-synchronous orbit. "RSAT is a 3-axis stabilised agile microsatellite weighing about 15 kg and measuring 300mmX300mmX300mm in size with deployable solar panels," one of its makers said.

"The satellite payload receives AIS signals transmitted by ships in VHF band, stores onboard, processes and transmits the ship's information to the ground station in X-band through a high gain phased array antenna during ground station visibility period. Satellite with S-based omni antenna system supports tracking, telemetering and commanding. Onboard control system with reaction wheels and magnetic torquers controls the satellite for sun tracking during sun lit period to generate maximum power and also tracks ground station for data transfer during ground station visibility period," explained team members.