APSS-1
APSS-1, launched in 2020, was New Zealand’s first student-built satellite. The spacecraft carried a Langmuir probe to measure electron density in the ionosphere, a region of the upper atmosphere in which seismic activity is theorised to create magnetic disturbances. The correlation of magnetic signatures captured by APSS-1 and ground-based seismic data could provide evidence of a likely earthquake before it occurs.
APSS-2
The space industry is rapidly growing; an unfortunate side effect is the accumulation of abandoned rocket bodies and derelict satellites. APSS-2 focuses on the miniaturization of electrodynamic tether technology–a mechanism for rapidly de-orbiting spacecraft. Through the development of a specialised compartment and deployment mechanism, APSS-2 stores a record breaking 50m of tether within a 10x10x2.6cm space. Due to this achievement, the design can be incorporated into future spacecraft as an efficient de-orbit mechanism with minimal impact on mass and volume. APSS-2 is projected to launch in 2025.
APSS-3
APSS-3 focuses on the future of the space industry, students, and education. The spacecraft will provide New Zealand focused data to NZ students for use in lessons, assignments, and research. This will be done through three payloads providing additional thermal and radiative data as well as the capability to photograph our beautiful island home. We hope that APSS-3 inspires students to study STEM subjects or enter the aerospace industry. Launch is currently planned for 2026!