Image taken by DubaiSat 2 to Palm Jumeirah. Photo: DubaiSat

[Via Satellite 04-16-2014] The DubaiSat 2 satellite has completed in-orbit commissioning and is now fully operational according to the Emirates Institution for Advanced Science and Technology (EIAST). Starting last November, the satellite underwent the Launch and Early Operations Phase (LEOP), which calls for verification of the satellite’s operating systems and subsystem level electronics, and testing for how they function in the harsh environment of space. The final steps before DubaiSat 2 was declared fully operational were to calibrate and authorize the telescope and sensors.

“The calibration and validation activities were conducted to ensure that the images will be useful to our customers and that they are of the highest quality which is crucial for the success of the mission,” said Salem Al Marri, assistant director general of scientific and technical affairs at EIAST.