Abstract :
In 1989, university lecturers started planning for the Stellenbosch University Satellite (SUNSAT), South Africa´s first microsatellite. Students have designed and tested virtually all the electronics and much of the mechanics. The goals of the project are: enrichment of the graduate training program, promoting international cooperation and recognition for the university and country, and stimulating interest in technical careers for school children. Investment in the project, satellite technical details and educational benefits are discussed
Keywords :
artificial satellites; educational technology; space vehicle electronics; student experiments; SUNSAT; South Africa; Stellenbosch University Satellite; educational benefits; electronics; graduate training; international cooperation; investment; microsatellite; satellite technical details; school children; student experiments; technical careers; Atmosphere; Cities and towns; Educational institutions; Electronic equipment testing; Global Positioning System; Laboratories; Laser theory; NASA; Payloads; Satellite broadcasting;
