Microsatellite “Diwata 1” Paved the Way for the Philippines Entry into Space Age

The first-ever Filipino-made microsatellite “Diwata 1” will pave the way for the Philippines entry into the Space Age according to the officials of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST). The first microsatellite was already turned over to the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) last January 13, 2016.

Diwata 1

Mixed emotions were felt when officials of the DOST and the members of the “Magnificent 9,” the group of young scientists who built the country’s first microsatellite, attended the turned over ceremony.

DOST Undersecretary for Research and Development Dr. Amelia Guevara felt goosebumps as the lid of the box containing Diwata 1 was opened and the 50-kilogram microsatellite was lifted out for everyone to see at the “clean room” of the JAXA facility.

According to UP Vice Chancellor Fidel Nemenzo, the university’s research programs will now translate into real benefits since Diwata 1 will be used for disaster management weather prediction, agriculture and other local applications.

Joining the Philippine delegation at the turnover ceremonies was Deputy Executive Director Raul Sabularse of DOST’s Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development (PCIEERD), which funded the research, design, development, and manufacture of two microsatellites.

JAXA will ship Diwata-1 to the United States in March for its launch to and deployment from the International Space Station (ISS) in April.

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