PISAT nanosatellite ready for space launch in July 2016

The PISAT nanosatellite is ready for space launch in July 2016. PES University spearheaded the design, development, fabrication and testing functions for the nanosatellite. After stringent performance and quality tests by expert committee, the nanosatellite was formally handed over to ISRO at a function on the campus attended by top officials from the government and ISRO on April 20, 2016. Chief Guest Sri T B Jayachandra, Hon’ble Minister for Law, Parliamentary Affairs & Higher Education, Chairman, Karnataka State Higher Education Council, Govt. of Karnataka lauded the efforts of the University and said “It is heartening to note that ISRO is encouraging building up a strong scientific workforce in space technology by providing critical support to the technical institutions for motivating students towards space technology. ISRO provides guidance, critical components and free launch support to promote space technology among students. It is a pleasure for me to be in the midst of dedicated and motivated faculty who are nurturing the talented youth to be proud citizens of India and budding, aspiring students of PES University who have gathered here to celebrate the culmination of the meticulously executed events and rigorous pre-launch preparations for the student satellite PISAT”. Guest of honour Sri Amareshwar Khened Project Director, Small Satellite Systems (SSS) ISRO Satellite Centre (ISAC) spoke highly of the caliber of the students working on the project and said “ I congratulate all the PISAT team students and faculties who have successfully completed the milestones like vibration and Thermovac testing. It has been very useful to the students on order to get hands on experience”. The event was presided over by Dr. M R Doreswamy Ex-MLC and Chancellor, PES University who emphasized that “According to my knowledge this is the First University to launch a first student nano satellite with S-band Communication. We have spent nearly 1.25 crore for the satellite and ground station. It is a significant day in the history of PES Institutions”. Education for the real world. PES University is committed to developing highly skilled human resources with the ability to adapt to an intellectually and technologically challenging environment. The academic programs at PES University are designed to support the kind of progressive teaching and learning that the industry demands. Creating unique learning experiences for students. PES University’s is pleased and proud to share the story of PISAT nanosatellite, a testimony to the institution’s pursuit of academic excellence. The University takes pride in enabling over two hundred students get hands on experience and understand critical space technology and quality requirements. The joint initiative of ISRO, PES University and five other colleges proved to be a great opportunity for students to work in advanced facilities for space research, analyze launch readiness and related activities. PES University’s lead role. As a policy ISRO extends support to technical institutions and student missions. After extensive technical reviews by ISRO scientists, PES University was given the responsibility of leading design, development, fabrication and testing of nanosatellite PISAT. Four other engineering colleges collaborated on the project. The University established Electro Static Discharge Room and Satellite Control Facility on campus. Building nanosatellite with advanced features. PISAT is a three axis stabilized imaging nanosatellite weighing about 5 Kg and generates 13 watts power with S-band RF communication. The major subsystems are: an imaging camera to provide earth imageries with 80 meter resolution, On Board Computer (OBC), Attitude Determination and Control System (ADCS), RF communication system with S Band frequency, telemetry, telecommand, thermal system, structure and Electrical Power System (EPS). The ground software was developed for on ground orbit determination essential for mission operations. Clearing stringent performance and quality checks. The nanosatellite was subjected to critical design and stringent quality reviews at satellite center by a committee constituted by ISRO. Testing at the University’s research facility included card level testing, interface testing, integrated satellite level testing, calibrating camera and finalizing parameters. Testing at ISRO facility covered calibration of sun sensor and magnetometer, vibration test and thermovacuum test. The satisfactory performance of the prototype paved way for launch on C35 flight of Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle in July 2016. Nurturing excellence at PES University. The University appreciates the commitment and diligence of the staff members who worked on the project. The team included Dr. V.K.Agrawal, Dr. V.Sambasiva Rao, Ms. Divya Rao A, Prof. Mahendra Nayak, Dr. S. Venugopalan, Mr. S. Nagabhushanam, and Mr. Shanmugham C N. The experience of working on a challenging assignment is sure to inspire the students to persevere and pursue excellence. The University will continue to actively support interdisciplinary projects that bring together students and staff from various streams to come up with solutions for real world problems.