A fully funded two-year programme where students design, build, and launch a real satellite into space, in partnership with the University of Auckland and backed by the government's Aerospace Fund.
Rosmini College has partnered with the University of Auckland’s Space Department, Te Pūnaha Ātea, to design, build, and launch a satellite into orbit. The programme is fully funded through the Aerospace Fund, approved by Minister Chris Penk, and One Foot in the Clouds is the industry facilitator.
This is a two-year nationwide initiative. Schools from around the country are being recruited, with around 300 Year 10 and 11 students expected to take part. Running a space mission involves more than engineering: students with backgrounds in accountancy, law, and human sciences will have a role alongside the technical team.
“We are looking for kids who have the right attitude — students who just want to get involved in doing something long-term, hard, and mentally stimulating,” says physics teacher John Smith.
Teachers and students will first attend a conference to get started. Schools then collaborate nationally through prototype phases using CAD files, 3D printing, and microprocessor programming.
Testing for space
Students get access to the university’s testing facilities. In Low Earth Orbit, satellites cycle between -90°C and 100°C every 90 minutes, so designs are tested in a thermobaric chamber. Launch generates intense pressure waves, so satellites are also tested on a three-axis vibratory table. The satellite is designed to re-enter the atmosphere after making its observations, leaving no debris behind.
Careers
New Zealand is currently the third most active country for launching space missions, supporting a $3 billion-a-year industry. The programme is designed to show students there are aerospace careers available right here at home, in mechanical engineering, mechatronics, and avionics.
The prototype phase is underway. The finished satellite is expected to launch by late 2027 or early 2028.
In the news
- Rosmini launches satellite project — Rosmini College, June 2026
- New aviation endeavors at Rosmini — Rosmini College, June 2025