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As reported by Newsweek, Poland is planning to launch its first artificial satellite into earth orbit. If everything goes according to plan, the satellite, which has been named Mazovia, will be designed, constructed and launched in four years. The satellite is then expected to operate in orbit for 5-6 years. Scientists have already determined the basic technical specifications of the satellite.

According to our information, Mazovia will weigh around 200 kg and will be placed into orbit about 700 km above the North Pole. Its main function will be to provide photographs of the area under observation. For this purpose, the satellite will be equipped with a advanced high-resolution camera.

This will serve to increase the Polish military’s combat capability and to improve its standing among Poland’s allies. At present Poland uses data gathered by other countries' orbital scouts and information provided by NATO. For example, the Satellite Regional Operations Centre near Warsaw receives photographs taken by the American Ikonos satellite. However, Mazovia’s capabilities go beyond the military. For example, the satellite’s photographs will make it possible to ascertain the size of areas hit by natural or ecological disasters.

Scientists say that the satellite’s construction costs, which are today estimated to be around 20 million euro, should not be shocking. Satellites of this type sold by foreign space agencies cost twice as much. Moreover, the satellite's costs may pay for themselves: the documented experience of working on Mazovia will allow Polish engineers to apply for contracts in Europe's Galileo and GMES space programmes.

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