Botswana’s first satellite, BOTSAT-1, was successfully launched aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 Transporter 13 rideshare mission on Saturday, March 15, 2025, from the Vandenberg Space Force Base, USA.
The Falcon 9 rocket lifted off the Space Launch Complex 4E SLC-4E at 06:39 am GMT, carrying 74 satellites.
These included BOTSAT-1, 26 satellites as part of the Transporter-13 rideshare mission, and a trio of CubeSats for NASA’s Electrojet Zeeman Imaging Explorer EZIE mission; Arvaker 1, the first microsatellite for Kongsberg NanoAvionics’ N3X constellation.
BOTSAT-1 is a 3U hyperspectral Earth Observation satellite developed by the Botswana International University of Science and Technology BIUST and led by Dr Dimane Mpoeleng, BOTSAT-1’s Project Lead.
The project was done in collaboration with EnduroSat, the satellite’s lead manufacturer.
Similarly, ExoLaunch managed the launch in partnership with Space X as part of the Transporter missions, a smallsat rideshare programme.
Beyond supplying state-of-the-art imaging technology, Dragonfly Aerospace is supporting the Botswana International University of Science and Technology BIUST in developing its clean room facilities.
These controlled environments, essential for satellite assembly, integration, and testing (AIT), will feature industry standard air filtration systems, static control measures, and environmental monitoring tools to meet stringent space industry requirements.
This initiative will enable BIUST to build a sustainable pipeline of space technology projects while facilitating hands on learning opportunities for students and researchers.
Additionally, Dragonfly Aerospace has provided a 3U satellite structure for demonstration and training purposes, further enhancing BIUST’s satellite development capabilities.
Source: https://spaceinafrica.com/2025/03/15/botswana-successfully-launches-first-satellite-botsat-1/
