In the ever-evolving realm of space exploration, ground-breaking achievements continue to redefine the boundaries of human knowledge and capability. One such milestone is the recent launch of EIRSAT-1, Ireland’s first satellite, propelling the nation into the global space community. Accompanying this remarkable feat is Monmouth Scientific, a pioneer in cleanroom technology, whose Modular Cleanrooms played a crucial role in ensuring the success of the EIRSAT-1 mission.

EIRSAT-1 – IRELAND’S LEAP INTO SPACE

EIRSAT-1 is a nanosatellite developed by a team of students and researchers from University College Dublin (UCD). Launched into orbit on Friday December 1st, 2023, EIRSAT-1 marks a historic moment for Ireland, showcasing the nation’s growing presence in the field of space exploration.

The satellite’s primary mission is to collect data on gamma-ray bursts, intense flashes of gamma rays originating from the distant universe. Equipped with innovative technology and a suite of scientific instruments, EIRSAT-1 promises to contribute valuable insights to the global scientific community, advancing our understanding of the cosmos.

MONMOUTH SCIENTIFIC’S CONTRIBUTION – MODULAR CLEANROOMS

Behind the scenes of this remarkable achievement is Monmouth Scientific’s Modular Cleanrooms played a pivotal role in safeguarding the precision and integrity of EIRSAT-1’s components. These state-of-the-art cleanrooms provide a controlled atmosphere, minimising particle contamination and ensuring that the satellite’s delicate instruments remain in optimal condition for their mission in space.

  • Flexibility + Customisation – Monmouth Scientific’s Modular Cleanrooms are designed with flexibility in mind. They can be easily customised to meet the specific requirements of different aerospace projects, accommodating diverse needs in terms of size, layout, and cleanliness standards.
  • Rapid Installation + Modular Design – The modular design of these cleanrooms allows for quick installation, reducing downtime and expediting the overall project timeline. This feature is particularly valuable in time-sensitive aerospace missions like the launch of EIRSAT-1. 
  • Advanced Filtration Systems – The cleanrooms are equipped with advanced HEPA filtration systems that effectively remove particulate matter and contaminants from the air, creating an environment suitable for the assembly and testing of intricate aerospace components.
  • Compliance with Industry Standards – Monmouth Scientific’s cleanrooms adhere to stringent industry standards and certifications, ensuring that the cleanroom facilities meet the rigorous requirements of the aerospace sector.

A QUICK GUIDE TO EIRSAT-1

Payload
  • GMOD, the Gamma-ray Module, is a scintillator based detector, developed in UCD, which aims to detect gamma-ray bursts.
  • EMOD, the ENBIO Module, will test Irish company ENBIO’s thermal control coatings in space.
  • WBC, Wave Based Control, is a novel attitude control algorithm developed in UCD which will be tested in space at a later stage of the mission.
Ground Station School of Physics, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4
Dimensions <106.7mm, 106.7mm, 227mm>
with deployed antennae <1053.99mm, 613.19mm, 232mm>
Mass 2305 g
Power consumption 2.217 W
Solar Panels 4 x 2U, (20), body mounted
Mission Lifetime 9-24 months
Website www.eirsat1.ie

The successful launch of EIRSAT-1 exemplifies the spirit of innovation and collaboration in the field of space exploration. Monmouth Scientific’s contribution through the design and installation of Modular Cleanrooms highlights the critical role that clean air technologies play in ensuring the success of ambitious projects in the aerospace industry.

Monmouth Scientific will be exhibiting at the Space-Comm Expo on March 6-7 at the Farnborough International Exhibition and Conference Centre. Visit Stand E15 to discover first-hand the ground-breaking capabilities of Modular Cleanrooms.

Register for your Visitor Pass

Article Credit:

[1] https://www.esa.int/Education/CubeSats_-_Fly_Your_Satellite/Lift-off_for_EIRSAT-1_Ireland_s_first_ever_satellite

Image Credit:

[1] European Space Agency (ESA)