DEVELOPMENT OF A SPACE TECHNOLOGY CAPACITY BUILDING INITIATIVE AT THE FEDERAL UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY, AKURE, NIGERIA

Abstract

Satellite communication is a wireless means of transmission of intelligible signals/information. When properly utilized it will bring about a great and positive development on the economic growth of any nation. The Federal Government of Nigeria made a giant step in the communication sector by launching five satellites into space: NigeriaSat-1, NigComSat- 1, NigeriaSat-2r, NigeriaSat-X and NigComSat-1R. With adequate spatial information, informed decisions can be made by stakeholders and adequate steps taken to ensure the growth of the nation. Demand for training capacity building in space technology is increasing. Unfortunately, space technology is a relatively expensive field with ongoing research for affordable training approaches. This paper presents methods of building capacity by developing Demo Satellites that receive telemetry data with radiofrequency and internet of things communication protocol. Web Dashboard was developed for remote monitoring of ground station and for exploring mobility in data communication, Localization was achieved to also track the Demo Satellites and the ground station in real-time. It is shown that the implementation of a low-cost capacity building programme is not only possible but a goal that should be aimed at. Multiple segments in the design of the schematics produced can be reused. It presents a pioneer satellite constellation prototype that displays the capabilities of a satellite in solving some of the country’s challenges and creating awareness on space research and its trends.