The Space Technology Research Group (STeRG) at MIT World Peace University (MIT-WPU), Pune, has successfully launched its first-ever space payload, STeRG-P1.0. Launched aboard the PSLV-C60 in collaboration with ISRO, this pioneering payload marks a significant milestone for the university and contributes to India’s space exploration endeavors.
This payload, developed entirely by students and faculty from the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, represents a breakthrough in cost-effective space technology. The STeRG-P1.0 payload is designed to test the performance of COTS MEMS-based 9-axis IMU sensors and ARM-based microcontrollers for attitude determination, employ advanced data filtration techniques, and utilize high-resolution data acquisition and storage for optimal performance.
Instead of relying on pre-made circuits, the system was indigenously developed by students. “This system has been developed without purchasing any pre-made circuits. The ruggedized system provides an affordable alternative for attitude (orientation of satellite) determination and innovative filtering,” said Dr. Parul Jadhav, Program Director of Electrical and Electronics Engineering. “The Space Technology Research Group (STeRG) students have been working on this task for the last 38 weeks. We are very proud of the solution developed, and we will continue this research further,” she added.
Prof. Dr. Murthy Chavali Yadav, Dean of R&D at MIT-WPU, commended the student-led effort, stating, “This payload, testing COTS-based avionics on PSLV-C60, is a testament to the ingenuity and dedication of our team. It highlights the potential of young talent in advancing space technology and is a proud moment for our institution.”
The university student, Achintya Chaware who is Project Founder STeRG1.0 stated about the milestone, he said, “As the founder of STeRG and this project, it’s a moment of great pride to see our first mission come to fruition. This mission was a success with the combined efforts of the students, faculty, and the continued support from MIT-WPU. We are especially grateful to ISRO and IN-SPACe for opening the doors of space for us. This payload will serve as our pilot mission for further research and development in the area of space technology.”
The journey to launch was no small feat, as described by Mission Lead Shreerang Saranjame “Over eight months of intense effort, we tackled challenges in orbital mechanics, system integration, and rigorous space qualification standards. Late nights and countless iterations culminated in a breakthrough during final testing, where everything worked flawlessly, making the journey immensely rewarding.”
ISRO and IN-SPACe have been instrumental in supporting student teams like STeRG in their pursuit of space exploration. During the review process, ISRO officials provided valuable suggestions and guidance that significantly refined the payload’s design. The team’s approach to creating a structurally robust and electrically redundant system was highly appreciated, with their simplistic yet impactful design earning praise from ISRO committees and the PSLV project director.
Looking ahead, the STeRG team has ambitious plans to develop MIT-WPU’s first CubeSat. This satellite will feature innovative experimental payloads collaboratively designed by students and faculty, furthering the university’s commitment to fostering innovation and academic excellence. The team also aims to establish a dedicated ground station for tracking and communication, bringing them one step closer to achieving end-to-end satellite mission capabilities. Participation in national and international competitions is also on the horizon, as the team seeks to broaden their knowledge and strengthen their collaborative efforts in core space technologies.
