LEXINGTON, Ky. (Nov. 21, 2013) – Kentucky Space LLC, a private nonprofit enterprise focused on entrepreneurial, educational and commercial space solutions, has announced that its KentuckySat-2 satellite was successfully launched from the NASA launch facility at Wallops Island, Va., at 8:15 PM EST on Nov. 19.
Shortly after liftoff, the spacecraft was successfully inserted into orbit and ground operation stations in Kentucky, the U.S. and Japan have reported receiving data packets from the satellite indicating that systems are functioning normally.
KySat-2 is a 1.3 kg (approximately three pounds) CubeSat-class satellite whose primary mission involves a technical demonstration of a stellar gyroscope – an innovative imager and mathematical models to determine spacecraft dynamics.
KySat-2 was launched as a secondary payload on the Operationally Responsive Space (ORS-3) mission on an Orbital Sciences Minotaur rocket.
The KySat-2 spacecraft was designed and built exclusively in the state by Kentucky Space, along with its partners Morehead State University and the University of Kentucky, and students made up the core of the spacecraft design/build team.
“This launch represents another major milestone in the growth, impact and reach of Kentucky Space” said KS Mission Director Twyman Clements.
The mission team from Kentucky Space, including students and faculty from the universities were on-site for the launch. Click here to view the actual launch.
For additional information relating to the launch contact Kris Kimel at [email protected] or 859-229-6161 or Twyman Clements at [email protected] or 859-229-2719. For information on the program visit kentuckyspace.com.
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