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By Asia Education Review Team , Monday, 15 April 2024

BITS Pilani Dubai Campus Achieves Landmark in Space Research

  • BPDC Dubai Campus proudly announces the successful launch and operation of its ground station, a significant advancement in satellite communication and space research. Tailored to track amateur and educational satellites, this cutting-edge facility epitomizes BPDC's commitment to innovation and hands-on learning in space technology. 

    Its inaugural success came with receiving the first image from the NOAA 19 satellite, showcasing its capability to capture vital weather data. Equipped with two high-performance antennas operating in VHF and UHF bands, the station ensures real-time communication with passing satellites over the BPDC campus. 

    Dr. Srinivasan Madapusi, Director of BPDC, highlights the milestone's importance, emphasizing the institution's dedication to providing students with state-of-the-art resources and practical experience in satellite communication. The ground station's standout features include autonomous satellite tracking using digitally controlled rotors and an omnidirectional antenna for meteorological research.

    This achievement is integral to the MAHASAT project, led by Padma Shri-awardee Dr. Mylswamy Annadurai, which aims to propel BPDC to the forefront of space exploration and education. Collaborating with Edutech4Space, a leading online space education hub in the UAE, the project seeks to revolutionize space technology through incremental advancements. Starting with the development and testing of a picosatellite using drones, the project has now reached the milestone of establishing a ground station at the BPDC campus.

    Shrisudha Viswanathan, Founder and CEO of EduTech4Space, underscores the significance of this accomplishment, highlighting its contribution to practical training and research opportunities in space technology for the UAE student community. 

    Overall, BPDC's ground station inauguration marks a pivotal moment in advancing satellite communication and space research, serving as a testament to the institution's commitment to fostering innovation and providing hands-on experience to students. Through collaborative efforts like the MAHASAT project, BPDC aims to continue pushing boundaries in space exploration and education.