Oman’s First Satellite to Detect Light Pollution in 2019

Oman is in the process of designing and building a satellite to be launched in 2019. The satellite’s main purpose is to detect areas with high occurrence of light pollution.

Light pollution is a phenomenon created through the heavy presence of artificial lighting, notably in urban areas where there is heavy use of electricity. The bright night skies caused by light pollution can hinder astronomy observations, as well as disturb wildlife migration and sleeping patterns of individuals.

The project is headed by the Oman Astronomical Society (OAS), with the support and participation from prominent academia figures, governmental ministries and the armed forces.

According to Saleh bin Said Al Shethani, President of OAS, cube satellite or cubesat will be deployed. The miniature satellite will have a dimension of 10x10x10 cm cubic units and will weigh about 1.33 kg.

No specific launch date has been set.