Agnirva Space Premier League - Expedition #31596: LituanicaSAT-1: A Pioneering Mission from Lithuania’s Engineers to Low Earth Orbit

When LituanicaSAT-1 launched into space, it carried more than electronics—it carried a piece of Lithuanian history. Named after the legendary transatlantic flight of pilots Darius and Girėnas in 1933, this CubeSat represented Lithuania’s passion for exploration and innovation.

LituanicaSAT-1 was developed by a team of young engineers and scientists at Vilnius University and the startup Innovative Engineering Projects. The satellite was launched to the International Space Station as part of Expeditions 37/38 and deployed into orbit through the NanoRacks deployer. This marked a major technological milestone for Lithuania.

The mission objectives were ambitious for such a small satellite. LituanicaSAT-1 aimed to test space communication systems, on-board computing, and telemetry in the harsh environment of space. It was equipped with an amateur radio transponder, GPS receiver, and mini camera. These systems allowed it to transmit messages, collect data, and capture Earth images from orbit.

One of the key goals was educational outreach. The satellite project involved students from various Lithuanian universities, providing hands-on experience in satellite design, integration, and operations. The mission helped foster a new generation of Lithuanian aerospace professionals, while also building infrastructure for future space missions.

In orbit, LituanicaSAT-1 successfully sent back telemetry data and images, proving that even small CubeSats can provide meaningful science and communication functions. Its amateur radio payload also engaged the global community of radio enthusiasts, turning it into a collaborative platform.

LituanicaSAT-1 not only demonstrated Lithuania’s capability to develop space technology but also inspired a wave of STEM enthusiasm across the region. It showed that with creativity, determination, and teamwork, even smaller countries can contribute significantly to humanity’s space journey.

Get certified with over 100 hours of immersive, self-paced learning in astronomy, cosmology, space technology, and climate science through the Agnirva Space Internship Program. Join, complete virtual projects, and earn a digital certificate to showcase your space fluency in interviews, resumes, and beyond.