Thailand has successfully received signals from the KNACKSAT-2 satellite developed by KMUTNB. The satellite has transmitted signals back to Thailand, with the first detection achieved by the National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand (NARIT), confirming a significant milestone in Thailand’s space mission.
King Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok (KMUTNB) proudly announces the successful reception and decoding of signals from the KNACKSAT-2 satellite following its deployment into orbit from the International Space Station (ISS). During its first orbital pass over Thailand on Sunday night, February 22, 2026, at 01:02 a.m., the NARIT ground station became the first organization in Thailand to successfully detect the signal from KNACKSAT-2 (First Signal), confirming that the satellite stays in orbit.
System Status Confirmation
The successful signal reception and decoding indicate that:
- The electrical power generation and power management systems are functioning within normal parameters.
- The on-board computer for CubeSat missions is demonstrating stable, reliable operation.
- The satellite can transmit beacon signals and telemetry to the ground station.
- Signal strength and stability are at appropriate levels.
The successful deployment of KNACKSAT-2 marks a significant milestone for the satellite mission, showcasing significant national space capability alongside the operational readiness of the Thai-developed CubeSat.
Additionally, amateur radio operators and stations within the global SatNOGS (Satellite Networked Open Ground Station) network have reported they are actively receiving signals, telemetry and data transmitted from KNACKSAT-2 as it orbits the Earth and passes over various regions including America, Japan, Australia, and Europe. These reports further confirm healthy signal transmission and operational status, indicating the satellite is currently undergoing the LEOP phase.
National and International Collaboration
KNACKSAT-2 is a 3U CubeSat (30x10x10 cm) multi-payload platform developed by:
- King Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok (KMUTNB)
- International Space Technology Institute for Economic Development (ISTED)
- NB-SPACE Co. Ltd. (a recognized spinoff company from KMUTNB)
- Kyushu Institute of Technology (KYUTECH), Japan
KNACKSAT-2 was successfully deployed into orbit from the International Space Station. It was released via the JEM Small Satellite Orbital Deployer (J-SSOD) operated by JAXA.
NARIT detected the first signals from the KNACKSAT-2 satellite, reflecting the capability of Thailand’s ground infrastructure and demonstrating substantial collaboration among national space agencies.
Next phases of the space mission
Following satellite signal confirmation, the engineering team will initiate the following procedures to transition from launch to operational status:
- Conducting a detailed inspection and analysis of satellite subsystem data
- Testing system stability under orbital conditions to maintain operational integrity in space
- Gradually activating payloads according to mission procedures
Significance for Thailand’s Space Technology Development
The success in communicating with and decoding signals from the satellite demonstrates Thailand’s growing capability for a comprehensive satellite development and operation, ranging from the phases of conceptual design, assembly and integration, comprehensive testing, in-orbit operation and mission control.
The KNACKSAT-2 project serves as a cornerstone for advancing Thailand’s space economy and fostering aerospace engineering expertise in the long run.
Telemetry data can be viewed at: https://dashboard.knacksat.com/telemetry/dashboards
For further information, please contact Dr. Pongsathorn Saisujarit
International Institute of Space Technology for Economic Development (INSTED)
King Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok (KMUTNB)