Philippines’ First Microsatellite, Diwata-1, Completes 20-Month Scientific

Mission

The Philippines has made history with the successful launch and mission of its first
microsatellite, Diwata-1. The microsatellite weighs around 50kg and carries four optical
payloads, including telescopes and cameras. It was developed by a team of nine Filipino
engineers from the DOST-Advanced Science and Technology Institute (ASTI) and UP Diliman,
in collaboration with Japan's Hokkaido University and Tohoku University.

Diwata-1 was launched to the International Space Station (ISS) on March 23, 2016, and
deployed into orbit on April 27, 2016, at an altitude of 400-420 km with a speed of around 7
km/sec. The microsatellite followed the orbit of the ISS and completed its mission for 20
months, during which it carried out scientific earth observation missions, including weather
observation, environmental monitoring, and disaster risk management.

Compared with the government spending ₱56 million for satellite imagery of an area affected by
Yolanda, the investment in Diwata-1 was considered a "small investment." The success of the
project has paved the way for new projects and initiatives in space technology, which can help
address issues that affect the country and benefit the rest of the world.