In a historic moment, the Thai-made satellite KnackSat-2 from King Mongkut's University of Technology North Bangkok (KMUTNB) was released from the International Space Station and entered orbit at 15:55, marking good news for Thailand's space industry.
On 3 Feb 2026, the Thai space sector received good news when the KnackSat-2 satellite from King Mongkut's University of Technology North Bangkok (KMUTNB), which was sent to the International Space Station (ISS) in September last year, was released from the ISS on 3 Feb at 15:55.
The International Space Technology Development Institute (INSTED) at KMUTNB's Technology Park developed the KNACKSAT-2 satellite, a CubeSat capable of carrying up to 10 payloads. This satellite platform allows government and private sectors to send their payloads for testing and use in space without developing an entire satellite system themselves, significantly reducing costs, time, and complexity in accessing space. This represents a major step forward in expanding Thailand's space research and innovation opportunities.
The project’s mission focuses on space technology research and development, including 1. IoT connectivity in remote areas, 2. Train position tracking (APRS) for safety, 3. Measuring UV radiation intensity, 4. Testing gamma radiation protection devices, and 5. In-orbit verification of components to elevate devices to "Flight Heritage" standards, building confidence for future missions. KNACKSAT-2 will orbit approximately 400 kilometers above Earth, operate for about 18 months, and pass over Thailand and neighboring countries multiple times daily.
KNACKSAT-2 was deployed from the ISS into orbit using the JEM Small Satellite Orbital Deployer (J-SSOD) of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) on 3 Feb. In this project, INSTED collaborated on satellite technology development with NBSPACE, a KMUTNB spinoff company, and Kyushu Institute of Technology (KYUTECH) in Japan.
The press conference featured executives from King Mongkut's University of Technology North Bangkok. Professor Dr. Suchat Xiangchin, Director of the Technology Park at KMUTNB, welcomed attendees. Professor Dr. Teerawut Boonyasophon, Chair of the KMUTNB University Council, officially opened the event, and Professor Dr. Thanin Sincharu, the university president, gave the closing remarks.