StudSat2

StudSat2 is an Indian student-built satellite project developed by students at the Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST) in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. It is the successor to the first StudSat, launched in 2016, and is part of India’s efforts to foster space education and innovation among young engineers.

The primary objective of StudSat2 is to demonstrate advanced satellite technologies while providing hands-on experience to students in satellite design, manufacturing, and operations. The satellite carries several payloads, including a high-resolution camera for Earth observation, a GPS receiver for navigation experiments, and a digital store-and-forward communication system for amateur radio enthusiasts. It also incorporates innovative features such as a deployable solar panel and a compact reaction wheel for attitude control.

StudSat2 was launched aboard the PSLV-C53 mission by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in January 2023, alongside other commercial satellites. The satellite operates in a Low Earth Orbit (LEO) at an altitude of approximately 500 kilometers. Its mission aims to validate new technologies while contributing to global space research and education initiatives.

The project has been supported by ISRO, which provides technical guidance and infrastructure, ensuring the satellite meets stringent space environment requirements. StudSat2 serves as a platform for students to gain practical exposure in satellite systems engineering, fostering collaboration between academia and the space industry.

Through StudSat2, IIST continues its tradition of promoting space technology education, inspiring future generations of engineers and scientists in India and beyond. The satellite’s data is expected to be utilized for research, educational outreach, and amateur radio communication experiments.