In a statement, the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development (DOST-PCIEERD) said the microsatellite will be released via the Japanese Experiment Module (JEM) — nicknamed “Kibo” — at an altitude of 400 kilometers from the earth’s surface.
Related: First Filipino-made satellite ‘Diwata-1’ launched into space
The deployment of Diwata-1 marks the first foray of a 50-kilogram class satellite from Kibo, according to the National Research and Development Institute of Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA).
“The deployment of the microsatellite combines the only air lock and robot arm in the ISS (International Space Station) used in Kibo operations, which, in the future, is expected to be one of the important means to meet the launch needs of microsatellites,” said JAXA in a statement.
Diwata-1 will capture photos and images from its main payload consisting of high precision telescope, space-borne multispectral imager, and wide field camera.
Related: Diwata-1 engineer: Seeing it launch was a happy experience
The telescope yields high resolution imaging essential for the observation of large-scale weather patterns, while the imager monitors bodies of water and vegetation. Meanwhile, the camera observes large-scale weather patters.
Science and Technology Sec. Mario Montejo said aside from being beneficial to disaster-response mechanisms, agriculture, and tourism, Diwata-1 is a “milestone” in the country’s developing space program.
For Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Cuisia Jr., the launch of Diwata-1 is a “giant leap for Philippine science and technology.”
“It could also provide Philippine policy makers with the scientific data and information needed to formulate policies relating to disaster mitigation, agricultural productivity, and management of land and water resources,” Cuisia added in a statement.
Diwata-1 is expected to orbit for 20 months and will be imaging the country twice daily.
The space launch can be watched live at youtube.com/user/jaxachannel.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) — A month after its launch to the space station, Diwata-1, the country’s first microsatellite, is set to rocket in space and officially begin its mission on Wednesday (April 27) at 7 p.m. local time.
