Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST), in collaboration with Dragonfly Aerospace, has successfully launched BOTSAT-1, Botswana’s first national satellite. The satellite was launched aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9—Transporter-13 rideshare mission on March 15, 2025, marking a historic achievement in Botswana’s journey to becoming a space-faring nation. BOTSAT-1, owned and operated by Botswana, was developed in collaboration with regional and international partners. Dragonfly Aerospace contributed its advanced Mantis Hyperspectral Imager, supporting Botswana’s efforts in space research and technology.

As part of Botswana’s strategy to deploy cutting-edge technology, the mission utilises the Mantis Hyperspectral Imager from Dragonfly Aerospace, providing advanced imaging capabilities. Manufactured in South Africa, the Mantis imager delivers detailed spectral insights to support environmental monitoring, resource management, and agricultural research — critical tools for sustainable development in Africa.

A Botswana-Led Space Initiative with Global Impact

This mission was made possible through the support of the Botswana government, including the Ministry of Communications and the Ministry of Higher Education, and strategic partners such as Endurosat, which contributed to satellite integration and training. The BOTSAT-1 mission is complemented by a ground station in Botswana, enabling real-time data reception and analysis. This data will support national policies in agriculture, climate monitoring, and urban planning. Beyond delivering state-of-the-art imaging technology, Dragonfly Aerospace is assisting BIUST with designing and developing its clean room facilities. These controlled environments are critical for satellite assembly, integration, and testing.

The clean room infrastructure will include industry-standard air filtration systems, static control measures, and environmental monitoring tools to meet stringent space industry requirements. This will help empower the university to develop a sustainable pipeline of space technology projects and foster hands-on learning for students and researchers. Additionally, Dragonfly has supplied a 3U satellite structure for demonstration and training purposes, further contributing to BIUST’s satellite development capabilities.

Cutting-Edge Imaging for African-Led Research

Francois Mostert, CEO of Cameras at Dragonfly Aerospace, commented, “We are proud to contribute to Botswana’s space ambitions. The Mantis Hyperspectral Imager will provide the advanced imaging capabilities needed to support critical environmental and research applications, strengthening Africa’s Earth observation capacity.”

BIUST’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Otlogetswe Totolo, said, “The launch of BOTSAT-1 is a defining moment for Botswana. It demonstrates our ability to develop, launch, and utilise space technology for national development. This project strengthens our country’s role in space research and enhances our ability to monitor and manage our natural resources.”

A Milestone for Space Technology in Southern Africa

The successful launch of BOTSAT-1 is the first step in Botswana’s broader space strategy, which aims to expand the nation’s satellite capabilities for scientific research, environmental sustainability, and digital transformation. It also sets a precedent for future African-led satellite missions, demonstrating the power of strategic partnerships in driving innovation.

By enabling African-led satellite missions and fostering strategic alliances between academic institutions and private companies, the partnership demonstrates the power of collaboration in driving technological progress.

Moreover, Dragonfly Aerospace’s continued efforts to support infrastructure development and technology transfer signal a long-term investment in regional capacity building. The success of this initiative is expected to pave the way for more ground-breaking projects, empowering local talent and promoting the development of a vibrant space industry ecosystem across Southern Africa.

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