Finnish Microsatellite Foresail-1p Successfully Launched Into Space

In a remarkable achievement for Finnish space research, the microsatellite Foresail-1p was successfully launched into space from the Vandenberg Space Force Base in California on Friday. Aalto University confirmed the launch, which took place aboard the Transporter-15 mission. The Transporter-15 mission, operated by US firm SpaceX, launched at 10:44am local California time.

This mission marked a significant milestone for Finland’s space exploration endeavors. Foresail-1p is equipped with two crucial scientific instruments: the Pate particle telescope and the Plasma Brake experiment. The Pate particle telescope is designed to study near-Earth radiation, while the Plasma Brake experiment aims to test the deorbiting of the satellite, ultimately reducing orbital debris.

According to Aalto University Space Technology Professor Jaan Praks, “Foresail-1p is a major step forward for Finnish space research. Through the collaboration of top Finnish teams, we have developed an independent national capability to carry out our own scientific space missions.” The data collected from Foresail-1p will significantly enhance researchers’ understanding of low-Earth orbit radiation levels and improve space weather modelling.

The information in this article was first published in “News”.