Researchers at CPUT are planning to take innovation to another level with the development of the institution’s first satellite.
During the next two years, postgraduate students, specialising in Satellite Systems Engineering, will build a nano satellite.
This venture into space science and technology is being backed by the National Research Foundation, who recently approved funding of R21 million for the Satellite Systems Engineering Programme.
The rollout of the programme comes just months after former South African President Kgalema Motlanthe signed the SouthAfrican National SpaceAgency Bill that will drive space-related activities.
Prof Robert van Zyl, who will drive CPUT’s space activities, said with the Bill in place, the institution saw an opportunity to develop students for the South African Space Industry.
“The new Space Policy opens up opportunities for our students. This will be a viable industry in the future,” he said.
The programme is based in the French South African Institute of Technology (F’SATI), a specialised unit at CPUT that focuses on Electronic Engineering.
The students will work alongside Prof van Zyl, F’SATI staff members and several external specialists, developing the satellite. A network of collaborators, including the Hermanus Magnetic Observatory, the Space Applications Centre, EADS ( France ), and ClydeSpace ( Scotland ) are some notable partners in this venture.
“This is a very ambitious project, but we will succeed,” he said.
Prof van Zyl said they will develop a CubeSat, which will measure 30 by 10 by 10 cm and will weigh three kg.
If all goes as planned, the satellite will be completed in 2011.
It will then be showcased at the International Astronomical Federation Conference, which will be held in Cape Town in October 2011.
“We already have commitment from the European Space Agency to facilitate the launch of the satellite,” said Prof Van Zyl.
The programme has also received backing from the Department of Science and Technology ( DST ), which has listed space science and technology as one of its grand challenges.
According to a 10 year plan drafted by the DST , South Africa must grow the local satellite industry and increase research, development and innovation in space science.
Dr Thandi Mgwebi, director of the NRF Human Capacity Programme, said to ensure this industry thrives in South Africa , higher education institutions must develop human capacity in the space arena .
She said F’SATI, which has a strong focus on innovation, can contribute to developing skills in this area.
Dr Chris Nhlapo, CPUT deputy vice-chancellor for Research, Technology Innovation and Partnerships, said CPUT wants to be at the forefront in contributing to the implementation and success of South Africa ’s National Space Strategy.
By Candes Keating
Photograph: Prof Robert van Zyl, who will drive CPUT’s space activities with students enrolled in programmes offered at the French South African Institute of Technology.
Written by CPUT News
Email:
