The Light-1 CubeSat (Light-1) nanosatellite, a joint initiative by the UAE Space Agency, Bahrain’s National Space Science Agency, Khalifa University of Science and Technology, and New York University (NYU) Abu Dhabi, has successfully launched into orbit from the International Space Station (ISS) in cooperation with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) that coordinated the launch from the Tsukuba Space Centre (TKSC) in Japan.
First of its kind
The Light-1 is the Middle East’s first mission to monitor and study Terrestrial Gamma-ray Flashes (TGFs) from thunderstorms and lightning. The data gathered by the nanosatellite will be shared to support scientific analysis and encourage cooperation with research centres around the world.
International teams
22 university students from Khalifa University including nine Bahrainis, 10 Emiratis, and three international students, advised by Dr. Firas Jarrar, Manager, Yahsat Space Lab, Assistant Professor, Mechanical Engineering worked on the project.
The NYU Abu Dhabi team of five Emirati students and five international students worked on the development of the Rapid Acquisition Atmospheric Detector (RAAD) payload and were advised by Dr. Francesco Arneodo, Programme Head of Physics, and Dr. Mallory Roberts, Professor of Physics.
Gamma-rays
The Light-1 nanosatellite will study the impact of high-energy gamma-ray emissions on the atmosphere, air traffic and human health, especially that of flight crews. High-energy gamma-rays can penetrate aircraft structures, and the data collected by Light-1 will improve understanding related to radiation exposure.
Light-1’s gamma-ray detection system, RAAD, was designed and assembled with a bespoke layout, and makes use of state-of-the-art detection devices. The satellite will make an impactful contribution to the understanding of of TGFs. Due to its innovative technology, the Light-1 nanosatellite might become the starting point for future, larger missions to study gamma rays.
Dr. Arif Sultan Al Hammadi, Executive Vice-President, Khalifa University, said, “The launch of Light-1 CubeSat into its orbit from the International Space Station reflects the intense collaboration engaged by all stakeholders involved, as well as the extent of technical brilliance displayed by students in the UAE with suitable guidance from experts.
“As this UAE-Bahraini nanosatellite reached its orbital position, we believe this collaboration initiative will stand out as the best example of what can be achieved by the scientists in the Arab world. We are happy to work with our brothers in Bahrain in scientific development that will not only benefit our countries but also the whole world and humanity. Also this is a great effort between local universities in the UAE. We believe Light-1 will carry out its mission towards studying Terrestrial Gamma-ray Flashes and their impact on aircraft and other flying devices, while supporting scientific analysis in space,” he said.
Last month, DEWA launched a nanosatellite in support of its mission to digitise electricity and water networks.
