Launch of VNREDSat-1 remote sensing satellite postponed.

Despite all preparations being complete, the launch of Vietnam's first remote sensing satellite, VNREDSat-1, had to be postponed at the last minute due to weather conditions.

Screenshot of the VEGA rocket just before launch.
Photo: thanhnien.com.vn

At approximately 9:00 AM this morning (May 4th, Vietnam time), which is 11:00 PM on May 3rd, local time, according to information from the Guiana Space Center launch site on Kourou Island (a French territory), authorities have decided to postpone the launch of the VNREDSat-1 remote sensing satellite due to weather conditions. Specifically, the wind at the launch site is behaving erratically and is unfavorable for launching the rocket into space. The launch will be carried out at a more suitable time.

At 9:30 AM, Arianespace, the unit responsible for launching the rocket, issued a statement on its website confirming that the satellite launch had been postponed due to unfavorable weather conditions. The launch date will depend on weather conditions and will be announced later.

Dr. Bui Trong Tuyen, Deputy Director of the Institute of Space Technology, Head of the Small Satellite Project Management Board, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, also officially confirmed this information to the press, and expressed hope that the satellite launch would take place tomorrow morning (May 5th).

Mr. Bui Trong Tuyen. Photo: VGP/Xuan Tuyen

However, Mr. Tuyen also stated that typically, the time for a satellite to be ready on the launch pad only lasts about one day. Therefore, if the weather remains unfavorable tomorrow, the launch will be further delayed and a new process will certainly have to begin.

"The process of installing a satellite onto a rocket to prepare it for launch into orbit typically takes 20 days," Mr. Tuyen said.

No impact on Vietnam

In response to questions from several media outlets, Dr. Bui Trong Tuyen stated that the postponement of the VNREDSat-1 satellite launch would not affect Vietnam.

"According to the contract, Vietnam will receive the satellite after it has been operating stably in orbit; all stages of launch and orbital stabilization will be carried out by the contractor," Mr. Tuyen said.

Mr. Tuyen also ruled out the possibility of damage or impact on the satellite's quality in the event of a new launch preparation procedure, as postponing satellite launches due to weather conditions is normal, and Arianespace has extensive experience in this area. Furthermore, all stages are insured.

"Delaying the launch of the satellite into orbit will only prolong the waiting time for Vietnam to directly operate and exploit its remote sensing satellite," Mr. Tuyen said.

According to (Chinhphu.vn) - LT