IIT-Kanpur with its nano satellite — `Jugnu’ is ready to set new highs in space research. A team of students, working under the guidance of faculty members of the institute and scientists of Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) are set to launch India’s first nano satellite.

Designed life span of the satellite is proposed to be one year. Jugnu`s design will have to overcome many challenges as it will have to face high vibrations even before its ejection. The satellite will also have to survive high doses of radiation that can cause damage to the system’s memory. There are many other functionality constraints on the satellite hardware due to the limited power availability.

The aim of the making and launching of `Jugnu’ is to develop a long term infrastructure and human resources in the IIT-K for future space research programmes in the institute in collaboration with ISRO.

Scientists have used indigenous technology to develop ‘Jugnu’, whose weight and length are 3kg and 34cm respectively, he said, adding an estimated amount of Rs 2.5 crore has been spent to develop the satellite.

The hi-tech cameras fitted in the satellite will send photographs regarding agriculture, weather and soil to the base station.The satellite can also be used to link other big satellites in the space.
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