The Nepal Weekly 
August 27, 2024
By Er. Hari Ram Shrestha
Unit Chief, Space Research Center (SRC) NAST
Nepal’s space journey began with a significant achievement—the successful launch of its first satellite, NepaliSat-1, in 2019. This milestone, led by the Nepal Academy of Science and Technology (NAST) marked a turning point, igniting the nation’s ambition to explore outer space. In addition to being a significant scientific achievement, NepaliSat-1, launched in collaboration with the Kyushu Institute of Technology (Kyutech) in Japan with the support of the Nanosatellite Technology Program of Japan government and United Nations Office for Outer Space Affair (UNOOSA), also served as a representation of the country’s advancing space technology capabilities. The Nepali satellite orbited the earth for 841 days at low earth orbit and captured 95 images of the earth, sun, and planets. The satellite successfully completed all its missions and eventually decayed into space. Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli also tweeted in April 2019, “Though a humble beginning, with the launch of NepaliSat-1, Nepal has entered the Space-Era.
Taking Nepal into Space
Built under the BIRDS-3 program, NepaliSat-1 was a small but significant step forward for Nepal. Although it was primarily designed to capture images for educational purposes, it laid the groundwork for future advancements. This collaborative project, involving students from Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, and Japan, fostered a spirit of international cooperation in the pursuit of space exploration. Nepal’s journey into space didn’t stop with NepaliSat-1. Another significant project is Sanosat, which is a pioneering PocketQube satellite developed by the Nepali startup ORION Space. This innovative project showcases both the opportunities and challenges faced by emerging space nations. Due to certain policy and technical limitations in obtaining a license within Nepal, ORION Space collaborated with Spanish partners to successfully launch Sanosat-1. This collaboration demonstrates how creative solutions can overcome such hurdles.
Nepal is getting ready to launch Munal 1U (10 cm x 10 cm x 10 cm) standard-size CubeSat, an advanced nanosatellite. It is supported by NAST and developed by the Nepali startup Antarikchya Pratisthan Nepal (APN), representing a significant advancement in Nepal’s space capabilities. The launch service agreement with the Indian space agency, formalized during the visit of India’s External Affairs Minister, highlights the importance of regional partnerships in space exploration. Dr. S. Jaishankar, India’s External Affairs Foriegn Minister of Nepal, visited Kathmandu from January 4–5, 2024, at the invitation of Nepal’s Foreign Minister, former minister Mr. N.P. Saud, to co-chair the 7th meeting of the India-Nepal Joint Commission. After that, An MoU was signed on August 10, 2024, between the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India and NewSpace India Limited (NSIL). The MoU was signed by Shri Anurag Srivastava, JS (North) from MEA and Shri Arunachalam A, Director from NSIL. Dr. Rabindra Prasad Dhakal, Secretary, NAST, Dr. Surendra Thapa, Chargé d’affaires of the Nepali Embassy, and Dr. Abhas Maskey, Founder, Antarikchya Pratishan Nepal (APN), were also present at the occasion.
NAST acknowledges the importance of building capacity for Nepal’s long-term space aspirations. The launch of satellites marks just the beginning; to sustain and expand this program, a skilled workforce is crucial for addressing national issues. The development of NepaliSat-1 underscores this commitment. Two Nepali scientists, Dr. Abhas Maskey and Er. Hari Ram Shrestha, played pivotal roles in the BIRDS-3 project, contributing to design, development, project management, and data analysis. They have since returned to Nepal and are actively engaged in space research, serving as inspirations for future generations. However, challenges persist: limited infrastructure necessitates collaboration with neighbouring countries for satellite technology testing, validation, and rocket launches.
The Space Research Center (SRC) and its Activities
The NAST is actively working to enhance the nation’s capabilities in space technology by establishing the Space Research Center (SRC). This strategic initiative aims to address crucial areas such as communication, hazard management, remote sensing, climate change studies, and space technology research and development. The center aims to lead satellite development projects for the government, promote international cooperation in the space sector, and advance space education and awareness across the country. Additionally, it will focus on building the capacity of the space industry in Nepal to ensure that space technology and its applications are leveraged to solve societal issues.
This center aims to become a hub for research, innovation, and development in space science and technology. It provides a platform for scientists, engineers, and students to engage in innovative research and address topics of national importance, while also contributing to the global space community. The center offers opportunities for those interested in research and innovation in this field, supporting initiatives like MACH24 ORBITALS, which is led by Mr. Mohan Tamang. This initiative focuses on hybrid rocket design and development, aiming to launch 500 kg of payloads into low-earth orbit by 2030. Additionally, it will inspire the next generation of Nepali engineering students and scientists, encouraging them to dream big and pursue careers in space science.
NAST has launched several programs, which include educational partnerships and training initiatives. These initiatives consist of space outreach programs, CanSat training, ground station operation for engineering students, and support for startup companies working within NAST. The goal of these efforts is to develop a talented pool of scientists and engineers who will lead Nepal’s space projects in the years to come.
In conclusion, NAST’s vision for the Space Research Center(SRC) includes overcoming challenges such as limited direct access to space, the need for a more capable workforce, the development of space policies and agencies, and the allocation of the national budget for science and technology. These challenges are significant, encompassing difficulties ranging from securing funding to fostering a strong technical workforce and creating a supportive policy environment. However, NAST is dedicated to finding solutions. By advocating for increased investment in space-related education and training, our goal is to build a skilled workforce capable of driving innovation in space technology. Collaboration with international partners will also be crucial in gaining access to space resources and expertise. Additionally, by working closely with the Nepali government, NAST will push for the development of robust space policies and seek to ensure that space exploration and technology become integral parts of national strategic planning.
