The reason is that the Epsilon-S rocket test launch on November 26, 2024 failed. Japan is considering whether to continue using the Epsilon-S after fixing it or switching to another type of rocket.
The Vietnam Space Center is coordinating with Japanese partners to determine a new launch date, ensuring the satellite operates stably after launch as soon as possible.
Associate Professor, Dr. Pham Anh Tuan added that a team of Vietnamese engineers and experts has been sent to Japan to monitor the entire process of designing, assembling and testing the satellite in a simulated environment, from the launch stage to operations in space.
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Simulated image of LOTUSat-1 satellite. Photo: NEC |
In Vietnam, the ground system was built at Hoa Lac Hi-Tech Park, Hanoi, including a 9.3 m diameter ground antenna for signal reception, a control center, satellite operations, and a satellite data processing center. The Vietnam Space Center has received technology from Japan to operate this system.
Previously, the Vietnam Space Center and Sumitomo Corporation (Japan) signed the contract for the "LOTUSat-1 satellite, equipment and human resource training" package under the Vietnam Space Center Project. This is the first earth observation satellite project coordinated by a Japanese company using ODA loans under the Special Terms for Economic Partnership (STEP) from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
The LOTUSat-1 satellite weighs about 600kg, using the latest radar technology with many advantages such as detecting objects from 1m in size on the ground, the ability to observe both day and night. LOTUSat-1 can operate in all weather conditions. This is especially meaningful in Vietnam in particular and Southeast Asia in general due to the tropical climate that is covered by clouds most of the time.
Satellite image data will contribute to meeting the demand for image sources, providing accurate information, in order to respond to and minimize the impact of natural disasters and climate change, manage natural resources and monitor the environment...
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