21 March 2009, Shah Alam – YB Datuk Dr. Maximus J. Ongkili, Minister of Science Technology and Innovation accompanied by the Deputy Secretary General and representatives of the Malaysian space industry were at Subang Airport today to send off Malaysia’s first remote sensing satellite to the space launch facilities at Kwajalein Island to prepare for the launch scheduled on April 21, 2009.  

The Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) C-130 aircraft carrying the RazakSAT^® satellite took off from Subang airport initiating the beginning of the technical launch campaign. During a 20-hour journey the RMAF aircraft is scheduled to have refueling stops Kota Kinabalu and Guam before arriving at Bucholz Army Airfield.

RazakSAT^® which is also Malaysia’s second low orbit micro-satellite is accompanied by the team of 6 spacecraft engineers from Astronautic Technologies (M) Sdn Bhd (ATSB^®) who have been involved in the development of the 180-kg satellite from the very early stage.

Prior to the launch RazakSAT^® will undergo a series of tests, final fixtures, software setting and calibration which will prepare the satellite for the final integration with the SpaceX Falcon 1 launch vehicle and in-orbit operations.

“We are very excited with the upcoming launch of the RazakSAT^® which will be very meaningful for the country. Malaysian engineers have once again proven that we are capable of bringing science to a new level where it can serve our Nation. Let us wish them good luck.” said YB Datuk Dr. Maximus Ongkili.

The transporting of the satellite is organized in close collaboration between MOSTI, RMAF and ATSB^®.

ABOUT ATSB^®

Astronautic Technology Sdn. Bhd. (ATSB^®) was established to thrust Malaysia into the orbit of nations with space satellite technology. ATSB^® focuses on research and development in the area of design and development of space qualified systems employing advanced and innovative technologies. As the pioneer and leader in the small satellite business in Malaysia, ATSB^® has recorded numerous achievements within a short span of time. These include the design, development, launch and operation of Malaysia’s first micro-satellite, the TiungSAT-1. This hereditary knowledge leads to the design and development of the second micro-satellite, the RazakSAT^® and also the undertaking of Malaysia’s high-technology intensive programmes. For more information, please visit the company’s Web site at www.atsb.my