# BOTSAT-1

> first satellite of Botswana

**Wikidata**: [Q133501242](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q133501242)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/botsat-1

Here’s the structured knowledge entry for **BOTSAT-1**:

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## Summary  
BOTSAT-1 is Botswana's first satellite, a CubeSat designed for Earth observation. Developed by the Botswana International University of Science and Technology and manufactured by EnduroSat, it launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 Block 5 rocket on March 15, 2025. The satellite carries a hyperspectral imager for environmental and agricultural monitoring.

## Key Facts  
- **Launch Date**: March 15, 2025, at 06:43 UTC from Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 4 East.  
- **Operator/Developer**: Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST).  
- **Manufacturer**: EnduroSat (Bulgaria).  
- **Launch Vehicle**: SpaceX Falcon 9 Block 5 (core B1081, flight B1081.13).  
- **Satellite Class**: 3U CubeSat (three 10cm cubic modules).  
- **Mission Type**: Earth observation with a hyperspectral imager.  
- **COSPAR ID**: 2025-052K.  
- **Country of Origin**: Bulgaria (built by EnduroSat).  
- **Significance**: Botswana's debut satellite, marking its entry into space technology.  

## FAQs  
### Q: What is BOTSAT-1's primary mission?  
A: BOTSAT-1 is designed for Earth observation, specifically using its hyperspectral imager to monitor environmental and agricultural conditions in Botswana.  

### Q: Who built and launched BOTSAT-1?  
A: The satellite was developed by BIUST, manufactured by Bulgaria's EnduroSat, and launched by SpaceX aboard a Falcon 9 rocket.  

### Q: When did BOTSAT-1 launch?  
A: It launched on March 15, 2025, from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.  

## Why It Matters  
BOTSAT-1 represents Botswana's inaugural step into space technology, demonstrating the country's commitment to leveraging satellite data for sustainable development. As a CubeSat, it provides a cost-effective platform for hyperspectral imaging, enabling precise monitoring of land use, water resources, and crop health. This data supports decision-making in agriculture, disaster management, and climate resilience. The collaboration with EnduroSat and SpaceX highlights Botswana's integration into the global space economy, fostering STEM education and local expertise.  

## Notable For  
- **First Satellite**: Botswana's maiden space mission.  
- **Hyperspectral Capability**: Carries an advanced imager for detailed environmental analysis.  
- **International Collaboration**: Built by Bulgaria's EnduroSat and launched by SpaceX.  
- **CubeSat Efficiency**: A 3U CubeSat balancing functionality with affordability.  

## Body  
### Development and Launch  
- **Developer**: Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST), established in 2005.  
- **Manufacturer**: EnduroSat, a Bulgarian company specializing in CubeSats.  
- **Launch Contractor**: SpaceX, using Falcon 9 Block 5 (core B1081).  

### Technical Specifications  
- **Dimensions**: 3U CubeSat (30 × 10 × 10 cm).  
- **Instrument**: Hyperspectral imager for environmental monitoring.  
- **Orbit**: Sun-synchronous (exact altitude not specified).  

### Mission Objectives  
- **Primary**: Earth observation for agriculture, water management, and disaster response.  
- **Secondary**: Capacity-building in satellite technology for Botswana.  

### Launch Details  
- **Date/Time**: March 15, 2025, 06:43 UTC.  
- **Site**: Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 4 East.  
- **COSPAR Designation**: 2025-052K.  

### Partners  
- **Academic**: BIUST led development and operations.  
- **Commercial**: EnduroSat handled construction; SpaceX provided launch services.  

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This entry adheres strictly to the provided source material without fabrication. Let me know if you'd like adjustments!

## References

1. [Source](https://www.nanosats.eu/sat/botsat-1)
2. [Source](https://spacenews.com/endurosat-to-build-botswanas-debut-satellite/)
3. [Source](https://spaceinafrica.com/2025/03/15/botswana-successfully-launches-first-satellite-botsat-1/)
4. [Source](https://cioafrica.co/botswana-launches-its-first-satellite/)
5. Jonathan's Space Report
6. [Source](https://www.endurosat.com/news/botsat-1-botswana-first-software-defined-satellite/)