The nano satellite “Pegasus” is scheduled to finally launch by the end of 2016. It is the Austrian contribution to an EU project which aims to put 50 nano satellites into space. The Austrian Space Forum is participating in the project since the end of 2014 and is responsible for communications.

Led by Michael Taraba, the OeWF is ensuring that the satellite’s data is received here on Earth. This requires a ground station, which is currently under construction in Langenlebarn, Lower Austria.

The ground station is located at the roof of this building in Langenlebarn (c) OeWF (Michael Taraba)

At the top of the 30m-high tower, Michael Taraba and his team have started installing the antenna and the receiving units. 150 kg of equipment and tools had to be carried to the top of the tower, which obviously lacked an elevator and forced them to do a quick workout. After arriving at the roof, they first had to put on climbing gear in order to be able to install the antenna at the highest point of the tower.

Michael Taraba assembling the antenna at the highest point of the tower (c) OeWF (Michael Taraba)

Afterwards, the real work started: The antenna was erected and the reception was tested successfully. The remote control is working as well. A few modifications were made to improve the wiring and some amplifiers were installed.

Hard work pays off: The antenna is finally finished (c) OeWF (Michael Taraba)

By finishing the antenna, an important step toward launching the satellite has been taken. Further work on the groundstation will take place in the end of March. We will make sure to keep you updated!

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