First satellite developed in Norway soon to be launched

AISSat-1 is the first Norwegian satellite developed in Norway. It will be launched from India in late March or early April. The purpose of the satellite is to improve surveillance of maritime activities in the High North.

AISSat-1 is a nano satellite measuring 20 x 20 x 20 cm. It weighs six kilograms and is shaped like a cube. It will operate in a polar orbit at an altitude of 600 km. It will be launched by an Indian PSLV rocket from ISRO's facilities in Sriharikota between 20 March and 10 April.

AIS is a short range coastal traffic system used by ships and Vessel Traffic Services around the world. It is required to be fitted on every seagoing vessel of 300 gross tons or more. Its purpose is to help ship crews to avoid collision with other vessels as well as to allow maritime authorities to track and monitor ship movements. Today's AIS allows ships to communicate with other ships and land based base stations through VHF signals.

The Norwegian AIS receiver is placed on a custom made Canadian satellite platform, built by the University of Toronto.

The Norwegian Space Centre is project owner; the Norwegian Coastal Administration will receive the data and the Norwegian Defence Research Establishment is responsible for the technical implementation. The total cost of the satellite is approximately NOK 30 million.

 

Source: Norwegian Space Centre

Back | Top