Researchers from the Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) have been selected for the Unispace Nanosatellite Assembly and Training (UNNATI) by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Engr. Gracielle Capardo and Mr. Nathan Oscar Rosimo of PhilSA Space Technology Missions and Systems Bureau (STMSB) will join other international space researchers in the training in Bengaluru, India from 15 October to 15 December 2022.

UNNATI will provide a unique learning opportunity on Assembly, Integration, and Testing (AIT) of nanosatellites in a multicultural context, drawing from the space technology experience of UN member states.  Engr. Capardo and Mr. Rosimo are expected to develop expertise in satellite technology, obtain hands-on experience in AIT, gain exposure to satellite fabrication technologies, and observe and implement best practices and methodologies by ISRO.

PhilSA’s participation in UNNATI also paves the way for strengthening the country’s relations with ISRO for potential future space cooperation. In a courtesy call by PhilSA to the Indian Embassy in Manila on 27 September, H.E. Shambhu S. Kumaran, Indian Ambassador to the Philippines, told PhilSA that the government of India is preparing for more capacity-building activities for future collaboration with other countries, especially with the Philippines.

Mr. Rosimo and Engr. Capardo was joined by Mr. Kritzman Caballero (3rd from left), Chief of PhilSA Space International Cooperation Division and Dr. Marc Caesar Talampas (2nd from right), Director of PhilSA STMSB during PhilSA’s courtesy call to the Indian Ambassador. Mr. Nishikant Singh (rightmost), the First Secretary (Economic & Commerce) of the Embassy of India joined the Ambassador.