The MIR-SAT1 was successfully deployed into Space from the ISS via the KIBO Module on the 22 June 2021 at 14:55 (MUT). The first signals from the satellite were well-received in Australia and USA after the satellite had deployed its antennae and solar panels on orbit. As it passed for the first time over Mauritius at 16:56 on the same day, its beacon signals were well-received by the Ground Control Station at the MRIC.
The MIR-SAT1 was successfully integrated into the J-SSOD (JEM Small Satellite Orbital Deployer) at JAXA Tsukuba Space Center. After inserted into the deployer and packed, the satellite was sent to NASA and is now awaiting for launch. The MIR-SAT1, as part of the payload on the Cargo Dragon, is scheduled to be launched by the SpaceX CRS-22 mission at 21:29 (MUT) on the 3rd of June 2021.
The deployment of the satellite from the ISS to orbit is tentatively planned in about 3 week’s time.
The MIR-SAT1 has successfully passed the third Safety Review by JAXA Panel and is now in Japan at the Tsukuba Space Center.
The Phase 03 Safety Review verifies all the test results of the satellite, mechanical and electrical interfaces, JSSOD requirements, hazards and any other requirements as set by JAXA and the ISS.
The satellite is now undergoing acceptance check at JAXA.
The ground control station at the MRIC is currently under construction. This facility will enable the MRIC to operate and control the MIR-SAT1 satellite once deployed on orbit, and will consist of a control room at the premises of the MRIC and an antenna system on the roof of the building.
The antenna system will consist of 2 Yagi antennas and a 3m dish. This system will enable communication with our satellite as well as with other open satellites. A support structure is required to hold the antenna system. This structure has now been completed and installed as shown in the photos below.
The structure has a pivot system actuated by a winch and pulley mechanism to lower the lattice structure down in case of extreme weather events such as cyclones. The structure has been designed in accordance to the norms and standards, and all safety measures have been considered to ensure safe operation by designated staff.
The MIR-SAT1 has successfully completed a pod fit-check using the J-SSOD (JEM Small Satellite Orbital Deployer) Launcher Case provided by JAXA. This was done at AAC-ClydeSpace (Glasgow) in attendance of the MRIC and JAXA teams.
This is necessary to visually inspect any clash between the structure of the satellite and the launcher and that all structural envelope requirements have been met. This important to avoid damage to equipment during satellite deployment on orbit.
The Mauritius Research and Innovation Council (MRIC) in view to initiating the Republic of Mauritius into Space Technology and ensuring sustainability of the satellite project initiative, a series of outreach and capacity building workshops are being organised for the young generation of the country. The first of this series of workshops focuses on the building of an Antenna for Satellite Communication and the setting up of a mini-ground station for reception of satellite telemetry and other satellite data. A first pilot training with 6 students and 1 teacher of Prof. Hassan Raffa SSS on the antenna was initiated in April 2019. These students were also taught how to set up a mini-ground station to receive images and telemetry from low earth orbiting satellites. This station is currently in operation at the school.
In this context, a launching ceremony of this training programme was organised on the 26th of September 2019 at 9:30 at the Prof. Hassan Raffa SSS whereby representatives from other schools around Mauritius, including students were present. The Hon Yogida Sawmynaden, Minister of Technology, Communication and Innovation, in the presence of Hon. Leela Devi Dookun-Luchoomun, officially launched the MRIC training workshop during the event.
A similar pilot training has been conducted at the Forest Side SSS (Girls) which now has an operating mini ground station for receiving satellite telemetry and images.
The training workshop aims to cover all secondary schools in Mauritius and Rodrigues. Each school will be provided with their won low earth orbit satellite receiving antenna and associated equipment to operate a mini ground station. The first workshop will be organised in November 2019.
They will be available to meet with you at the Mauritius Research and Innovation Council (MRIC) Stand during the InnovTech 2019.
Looking forward to your presence.
Download the event programme here.
The Mauritius Research Council is pleased to invite you to attend a seminar on Friday 21 June 2019, at the MRC at 10:30 hrs, 6th floor, Ebene Heights Building, Ebene.
Background:
In June 2018, the MRC’s proposal for building its first CubeSatellite (MIR-SAT1) was selected as the best submission by a developing country under the UNOOSA/JAXA KiboCube program. Thanks to this program, Mauritius will send a satellite in space for the first time in its history. This project has inspired the MRC to look into other space related activities which can be developed in Mauritius.
In this connection, the MRC has invited Prof George Maeda, Assistant Professor from Kyutech University and active project coordinator for the BIRDS program. The BIRDS project is a Joint Global Multi-Nation Satellite project destined for non-space faring countries supported by Japan (participating countries are; Ghana, Mongolia, Nigeria, Bangladesh, amongst others). The BIRDS project provides training for international students to design, build and send their 1 Unit CubeSatellite in space via the Kyutech University. The Collaboration between the different member countries of the BIRDS program and the MRC could provide a positive boost for the first Mauritian Satellite initiative.
Prof Maeda will give a seminar entitled ‘ Old Space Vs New Space’ which will take place at the MRC on the aforementioned date and time. During his talk, he will explore the various possibilities Space technology could offer for our Country and will also provide insights for collaboration with the BIRDS project.
Registration for the Event:
Please do not forget to register for the event by click on the Register button below. The programme for the event is available for download.
Please note that seats are limited and will be allocated on a “first come, first served” basis. You may also follow our seminar Live the MRC YouTube channel at the aforementioned date and time.
More details will be communicated on the MRC Facebook and Twitter pages, as well as on the SpaceMauritius website for the live streaming link as from next week. (Key words : #MIRSAT1 ; #SpaceMauritius)
Looking forward to your presence. For any queries, please email or phone us on 465 1235.
In February 2019, the MRC has filed an application to the ICTA for the registration of its Ground Station to obtain a RA23 Radio Amateur License. This Ground Station will serve as the Main Station to operate and control the first Mauritian Satellite.
The CallSign “3B8MRC” has now been allocated to the Main Station of the MRC by the ICT Authority.
