The Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences and Technology, affiliated with the University of Sharjah, has begun the final testing phase for the “Sharjah Sat-2” satellite. This unique project, aimed at enhancing the capabilities of the Emirate of Sharjah in the field of space, recently saw a delegation from the academy visit the Kingdom of the Netherlands to observe the final assembly and testing stages of the satellite ahead of its anticipated launch.
Field Visit to ISISPACE
The academic delegation conducted a field visit to Innovative Solutions In Space (ISISPACE), which has extensive experience in developing and assembling CubeSats and advanced space systems. During the visit, delegation members were briefed on the progress of the “Sharjah Sat-2” project, which is being implemented in collaboration with national entities such as the Sharjah Municipality, the Planning and Survey Department, and the Sharjah Electricity, Water, and Gas Authority.
Testing and Assembly Activities
The visit specifically focused on monitoring the Assembly and Integration Testing (AIT) activities for the “Sharjah Sat-2,” a CubeSat measuring six units in size. These activities are essential steps prior to the launch, involving functional and environmental performance tests, as well as verification of subsystem integration as a cohesive unit. Power systems and communication systems were also examined to ensure their efficiency in receiving commands from the ground station and transmitting data.
Review of Testing Facilities
The visit included a tour of the testing facilities at ISISPACE, which featured a thermal vacuum chamber that simulates the harsh conditions of outer space. The delegation also observed mechanical vibration testing equipment, which replicates the vibrations experienced during launch, ensuring the structural integrity and cohesion of the systems and components.
Enhancing National Efforts in Space Sciences
At the conclusion of the visit, the delegation participated in technical meetings with systems engineers, as well as an introductory workshop on IPC standards used in the manufacturing, assembly, and testing of electronic systems. The “Sharjah Sat-2” reflects the significant potential of the Emirate of Sharjah in urban planning, environmental change monitoring, and natural resource management, while also supporting sectors such as sustainable agriculture and coastal area protection.
The “Sharjah Sat-2” represents an important step toward enhancing national capabilities in space technology and is expected to improve emergency response and disaster management. Equipped with a spectral imaging camera, it will be able to provide high-resolution images down to five meters, thereby enhancing Sharjah’s efforts in efficient urban planning and resource management.