In a groundbreaking achievement, students from University College Dublin, under the guidance of ESA’s Education Office, have built Ireland’s first satellite, EIRSAT-1. This 2-unit CubeSat carries three experiments, including a novel gamma ray detector that will study some of the most luminous explosions in the universe.

The journey of EIRSAT-1 began in 2017 when the team was accepted into the prestigious ESA Academy Fly Your Satellite! program. Over the past six years, these talented students have worked tirelessly with ESA experts, developing the necessary skills to design and construct their satellite. They have undergone rigorous test campaigns at ESA Education’s CubeSat Support Facility in Belgium and other ESA sites, ensuring that their creation meets the highest standards.

Now, as the satellite makes its way to the launch pad, the student team is preparing to operate it from Mission Control at University College Dublin. This hands-on experience will not only enhance their understanding of satellite operations but also provide valuable insights into the practical aspects of space exploration.

To celebrate this remarkable achievement, Irish broadcaster Rick O’Shea will host a live launch coverage event. Joined by guests from ESA and the EIRSAT-1 team, Rick O’Shea will take viewers through the mission’s history and major launch milestones. From liftoff to separation and acquisition of signal, this coverage promises to be an engaging and informative experience for space enthusiasts.

The significance of this mission cannot be overstated. EIRSAT-1 represents a major step forward for Ireland’s space industry and showcases the immense talent and potential of its student community. By engaging in hands-on projects like this, students gain practical experience and develop critical skills that will shape their future careers in the space sector.

The gamma ray detector on board EIRSAT-1 holds particular promise. Gamma rays are high-energy electromagnetic radiation emitted during powerful cosmic events such as supernovae and black hole mergers. By studying these gamma rays, scientists hope to unravel the mysteries of the universe and gain insights into its origins.

EIRSAT-1 is a testament to the power of collaboration and education. The support provided by ESA’s Education Office has been instrumental in nurturing the students’ talents and helping them turn their dreams into reality. This project serves as an inspiration for aspiring scientists and engineers, demonstrating that with determination and guidance, even the most ambitious goals can be achieved.

As EIRSAT-1 prepares for its momentous launch, the world eagerly awaits the valuable data it will gather and the discoveries it will make. This mission not only marks a significant milestone for Ireland but also contributes to our collective understanding of the universe. There truly is no satellite like your own satellite, and EIRSAT-1 stands as a testament to the power of curiosity and human ingenuity.