SumbandilaSat launch on track

The launch of SumbandilaSat is on track for 15 September 2009.

In an interview with SA AMSAT, Johan Erasmus, SunSpace systems engineer, speaking from the launch site in Kazakhstan, said that the satellite had travelled well and that all systems performed according to specification during the testing phase after the satellite was unpacked in the clean room at the Baikonur launch facility in Kazakhstan.

He said that the amateur payload performed well.
The beacon, parrot repeater and transponder were tested from a distance and RF levels measured. "We were delighted with the results."

The butane propulsion system tank was filled and the batteries charged. On Wednesday 2 September SumbandilaSat was integrated with the launch platform.

The main payload, a Russian governmental satellite, has arrived in Baikonur for integrating. The launch platform is expected to be transported to the actual launch facility and integrated with the rocket during the coming week.

"All looks good for a 15 September launch", Johan Erasmus said.

Listen to the interview on www.amsatsa.org.za and on Amateur Radio Mirror International later this morning.

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