Kathmandu, December 10
A satellite built by Chepang students has been launched from China. Named “Slippers to Sat,” the satellite was launched at 9:45 this morning.
Project Manager Rishab Adhikari informed that the satellite has already reached space.
“It has reached space. We will establish an online connection with it at around 12 PM. For that, we are heading to NAST’s ground station. Once it comes online, we will consider it our initial success,” Adhikari told Onlinekhabar.
This tube-shaped nano-satellite weighs 1.2 kilograms and is equipped with two high-capacity cameras. These cameras can capture real-time images and collect data on Nepal’s vegetation cover and water resources.
Another important feature of the satellite is its earthquake early warning system. Adhikari explained that the satellite includes technology capable of detecting micro electromagnetic waves generated before an earthquake and providing early alerts.
The satellite is also equipped with an electromagnetic system that allows it to halt its motion and adjust its orbit directly from Earth.
According to the original plan, the satellite was expected to operate for at least five years. However, the Sun’s 25th solar cycle has reached its peak (solar maximum), which means solar radiation will be extremely intense. Due to this, the launch team now estimates that the satellite’s orbital lifetime may be shortened, and it may function for only around one and a half years. The project was carried out with technical support from amateur radio digital communication, and children from the Chepang community in Chitwan were also involved.
All data transmitted from the satellite will be freely accessible to licensed amateur radio frequency holders and institutions worldwide. “Slippers to Sat” is the third satellite made from Nepal through coordination with the private sector.
