A space project led by Nanyang Technological University (NTU) was announced by Minister for Trade and Industry Mr Gan Kim Yong at the Global Space and Technology Convention.
The satellite will be launched into space in 2025, the satellite will orbit 250km over earth for at least 1 year. Typical satellites orbit at a distance of around 500km from earth.
The satellite is known as a Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO) and it will be the size of a refrigerator weighing around 100kg.
The satellite will be equipped with a camera designed by a local tech firm, LightHau Photonics.
Next Generation Development
The Satellite will be run by an engine built by Aliena (A local company from NTU). The engine is designed to generate thrust at low power to maintain the course of the satellite’s orbit.
The satellite will orbit the earth for a year before descending to earth’s atmosphere, it is designed to burn out during its course of reentry leaving no space trash behind.
Professor Lam Khin Yong from NTU said the satellite is a milestone for the country and the university.
“Satellite technologies are always multidisciplinary and complex, requiring the best minds in various fields, from power systems engineering to aerodynamics and software design, to work together as a team to develop new solutions that do not exist today. NTU is also proud to partner our own spin-off company Aliena and joint venture company ST Engineering Satellite Systems, both great examples of how NTU’s space technologies have successfully made it from lab to market, contributing to the nation’s rising reputation in the global space industry,”Professor Lam said.
Image for illustration purposes only.