In an unprecedented cross-border collaboration, students from Northern University in JaƯna, Sri Lanka have teamed up with Chennai-based space start-up SpaceKidz India to develop a communication satellite. The groundbreaking project, set to launch via ISRO next year, will provide hands-on experience in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields to participating students.
MoU Signed to Formalize Partnership
Northern University founder-chairman Indira Kumar Pathmanathan and SpaceKidz India CEO Srimathy Kesan recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding to oƯicially kick oƯ the student satellite initiative. The agreement paves the way for students from Northern University and government schools in JaƯna to work alongside their counterparts in Tamil Nadu on designing, developing and launching the sophisticated satellite.
Satellite to Study Space Atmosphere, Showcase New Tech
The communication satellite will carry advanced instruments to study the space atmosphere and demonstrate cutting-edge communication technologies, explained Pathmanathan. “The project will mark the first student-led satellite project involving government school students from JaƯna,” he noted. Participants will gain invaluable exposure to satellite technology and have the chance to contribute to pioneering research with potential global impact.
Empowering Students with STEM Skills
“The initiative will equip students with essential skills in satellite development, data analysis, and communication technologies, preparing them for future STEM careers,” said Pathmanathan. SpaceKidz India CEO Srimathy Kesan echoed the importance of the Indo-Sri Lankan student collaboration in science and technology as an opportunity for skill development.
Many students from the war-aƯected JaƯna region have lacked access to education, with only about 4,500 out of 22,000 able to study, Kesan pointed out. The satellite project aims to bridge this gap and empower JaƯna’s youth through STEM exposure.
Two-Phase Mission Plan
The mission will unfold in two phases, with the first focused on space and technology training for about 50 Sri Lankan school students and 10 from Tamil Nadu. The second phase will engage 30 Sri Lankan university students in constructing, integrating and readying the satellite for launch.
International Collaboration Breaks Boundaries
“Space does not have any boundaries,” noted IN-SPACe Ahmedabad Director Prafulla Kumar Jain, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation in space exploration. The “real international collaboration” between Northern University and SpaceKidz India exemplifies the borderless pursuit of scientific progress, he said.
Development of the student-built communication satellite is expected to take about a year, with a targeted launch window of October-December 2025, according to Kesan.
Conclusion
The historic satellite project uniting students from JaƯna and Tamil Nadu promises to expand access to hands-on STEM education, build technical skills, and inspire the next generation of space innovators. By transcending borders, the Northern University-SpaceKidz India collaboration showcases the power of international partnerships in driving scientific advancement and creating new opportunities for youth.
