Turkish space technology firm Fergani has successfully placed its sixth test satellite into orbit, according to an announcement from manufacturer Baykar. The satellite, designated as FRG-100D4, was carried into space as part of the SpaceX Bandwagon-5 mission, which launched from Florida.
Following its liftoff, the satellite successfully separated from the launch vehicle approximately 63 minutes into the mission. It reached its intended target orbit at an altitude of 590 kilometres at 3:07 pm Turkish time (1207 GMT).
Fergani Space Technologies was established by Baykar Chairman and Technology Leader Selcuk Bayraktar, with the new satellite developed entirely through domestic engineering capabilities. The company noted that the FRG-100D4 features several technological advancements compared to its predecessor models.
The satellite incorporates a range of domestically developed components, including a reaction wheel, a magnetometer, a magnetic torque rod, and an inertial measurement unit. Additionally, it is equipped with a Global Navigation Satellite System receiver, a battery pack, a regenerative modem, steerable solar panels, and a phased-array antenna. Furthermore, the FRG-100D4 carries an AI-powered computer, which is designed to facilitate more complex and advanced space missions.
