March 18, 2025

Botswana has officially entered the space age with the successful launch of BOTSAT-1, the country's first satellite, aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base, California, USA on March 14, 2025 (Pacific Time) / March 15, 2025, Botswana Time.

The launch marks a major milestone in Botswana's space ambitions and the culmination of years of effort under the BOTSAT Project, spearheaded by the Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST) in collaboration with local and international partners.

Following the successful deployment of BOTSAT-1 into orbit, the next critical phase is the Early Orbit Operations (LEOP). The launch of BOTSAT-1 is a historic achievement for Botswana, demonstrating the country's growing capabilities in space science and technology. BOTSAT-1 is commencing its primary mission of providing critical Earth observation data for agriculture, environmental monitoring, and disaster response. It also paves the way for future investments in satellite applications, STEM education, and international space collaborations.

The BOTSAT team, in partnership with government ministries, academia, and industry stakeholders, will continue to provide updates as the satellite progresses through its commissioning phase.

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