Jennifer Carter
Graduate Research Assistant
The KySat project is a CubeSat project recognizing the educational value of immersing students in systems level design, particularly in space systems development. KySat was envisioned by the Kentucky Science and Technology Corporation who has signed an agreement with NASA Ames and Stanford University to design, construct and fly a small satellite (cubesat) with a scientific payload that will be accessible (via tracking and data download) to students (pre-college and college) in Kentucky. The goal is to create a workforce in KY of students and graduates with the high-tech skills required to support the National Space Initiative. These skills include spacecraft design, satellite telecommunications, satellite mission support, and the physics and engineering skills associated with orbital mechanics, component integration, and engineering design. If successful, KYSAT will be the only satellite ever flown as a state-wide initiative. Additionally, the KYSAT project will be repeated on a continual basis—one could be flown every 18 months, giving KY a permanent presence in space. The KySat team includes Kentucky students (graduate and undergraduate) and faculty from the University of Kentucky, University of Louisville, Morehead State University, Murray State University, and Western Kentucky University.