Photo: Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) plans to launch a multi-spectral optical satellite on Friday, Aug. 25, a first for major university in Hong Kong. HKUST announced the planned launch Aug. 21. The satellite will be launched from at the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in Gansu with CGSTL, or  Chang Guang Satellite Technology Company.

The satellite, HKUST-FYBB#1, will be used for tracking remote sensing data related to global environment, disaster and sustainable development. The university plans to eventually launch a remote sensing satellite constellation and a comprehensive environmental monitoring and disaster forecasting system. Combining HKUST’s scientific research capability and remote sensing data obtained from CGSTL’s 108 orbiting satellites, the parties are set to build a comprehensive environmental monitoring and disaster forecasting system.

“This satellite launch marks the initial step towards HKUST’s ambitious goal of building a comprehensive remote sensing satellite constellation. Our aim is to develop cutting-edge multimodal spatial remote sensing technologies, including novel carbon monitoring techniques and data analysis tools. With comprehensive sensing capabilities, we envision providing services for disaster management, smart city development, and sustainable resource management,” Wang Yang, HKUST vice-president for Institutional Advancement, said in a statement.