In only a few days, the first Armenian satellite will take flight. On December 1 at 10:00 a.m. (US time) Hayasat-1 will be launched into space by a Space rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base. "Hayasat-1" is a satellite of CubeSat format. This type provides a cost-effective means of access to space and a wide range of missions and research activities, making them an integral part of the field of space exploration.

Technical description of Hayasat-1 includes a number of subsystems, particularly for power distribution and communication, and an on-board computer. Each subsystem has its own function, which was integrated and tested by our technical team. The power subsystem uses solar panels to generate electricity, batteries to store energy, and electronic equipment to distribute power, charge the batteries, and provide voltages to power the satellite modules. Light sensors on the solar panels measure light intensity, and magnetorquers stabilize and determine the orientation of the satellite by interacting with the Earth's magnetic field. Two-way communication with the ground station at the Bazoomq facility in Zovuni allows receiving various data, including system status, sensor measurements, orientation, orbital motion and other payload data, as well as sending instructions to the satellite to transmit data, change mode, reboot the on-board computer, to update firmware, etc.

Orbital parameters, thermal condition and payload performance are monitored by a device developed in Armenia, whose main function is to record changes in orientation and position. After detaching from the launch vehicle, the satellite autonomously deploys its communications antennas and broadcasts periodic signals containing telemetry data and a melody from the Armenian musical treasury. The onboard computer serves as the central controller, managing all functions of the satellite.

This project had to overcome many challenges to achieve our objectives. And what was our main goal? To prove that RA can fully implement a space system from scratch with its abilities, which should become the basis for more ambitious projects. Our goal is not only to have a satellite, but to create a system around it, and with the help of the satellite not only to receive data, but also to manage the system as a whole. Like all satellites, there are a number of risks that can interfere with this process. One of the risks is, for example, insufficient power during deployment, which will interfere with the process of opening the antennas.

These and a number of challenges are analyzed by the team so that they can provide ways to mitigate these risks. The Hayasat-1 project is implemented by two foundations: the Bazoomq Space Research Laboratory and the Center for Scientific Innovation and Education (CSIE).

The satellite has already successfully passed a number of tests in Armenia, Europe and the USA and is currently being prepared for launch in USA. Masis, one of the co-founders of the team, notes: "I have been interested in space since childhood. During my professional career, I worked with many specialists on important projects, but I always wanted to support Armenia as well. After 2020, I realized that I can leverage my expertise and create something that will help Armenia take a few steps forward. Today I am glad to be part of that great work. We are all looking forward to this historic launch to realize our vision for the advancement of Armenia."