Citizen Journal
SpaceIn launches indigenous pico satellite SpaceANT-D
by CJMY | 13 November 2023

Malaysia’s SpaceIn achieves a historic milestone with the successful launch of SpaceANT-D, a pico satellite designed for IoT applications.

Malaysian small satellite manufacturer SpaceIn, based in Nibong Tebal, achieved a significant milestone in the country’s space exploration journey.

The indigenous pico satellite, SpaceANT-D, weighing less than 250 grams, was successfully launched into space at 2.47 am local time with SpaceX‘s Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base, California, bringing the satellite to orbit.

The satellite, developed in collaboration with Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) and the Malaysian Amateur Radio Transmitters Society (MARTS), aims to demonstrate its capabilities in data storage and forwarding for IoT applications, aligning with Malaysia’s Space Exploration 2030 initiative.

SpaceIn to nurture local talent

SpaceANT-D, measuring 5x5x5 cubic centimetres, is designed to receive ground sensor data, transmit it to the ground station, and subsequently to the cloud for user-friendly data retrieval.

Deployed from AlbaPod, the satellite is expected to establish its first communication with the ground station within the next seven to 10 days, as stated by SpaceIn. This initiative made possible through the collaborative efforts between SpaceIn, USM, and MARTS.

SpaceIn CEO Dr Norilmi Amilia Ismail expressed excitement about the historic achievement and its significance in promoting satellite platforms for IoT applications. The successful launch reflects the commitment of USM and SpaceIn to nurture local talent and advance Malaysia’s space industry.

Dr Norilmi highlighted the future direction of SpaceIn, focusing on utilizing satellite technology to enhance connectivity and provide valuable data to industries such as agriculture, forestry, and oil and gas, contributing to efficiency and sustainability.

Significant stride in Malaysia’s space exploration

SpaceIn Sdn Bhd, a spin-off company of Universiti Sains Malaysia, played a vital role in the development of SpaceANT-D.

As one of the winners of the Skim Usahawan Permulaan Bumiputera (SUPERB) accelerator programme by TERAJU, SpaceIn utilized the grant to achieve this significant stride in Malaysia’s space exploration aspirations.

The collaboration between SpaceIn, USM, and MARTS underscores the importance of partnership in advancing technological capabilities. With SpaceANT-D, Malaysia aims to showcase its competence in satellite technology and pave the way for future developments in space exploration and IoT connectivity.

SpaceANT-D’s mission to demonstrate IoT connectivity capabilities aligns with Malaysia’s vision for Space Exploration 2030, showcasing the nation’s determination to play a significant role in the global space arena. This accomplishment sets the stage for future developments and opportunities, reinforcing Malaysia’s position as a key player in space exploration and technological innovation.