Coastal Carolina Launches Space Program, Plans to Create Mini Satellite
CONWAY — Coastal Carolina University just launched the first college-run space program in South Carolina. The CCU Space Program will include the creation of a miniaturized satellite or CubeSat called ChantSat-1. South Carolina is one of seven states without a CubeSat.
“CCU is proud to be the first higher education institution in the Palmetto State to introduce a program of this kind,” CCU Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Sara Hottinger said in a statement. “This endeavor will provide hands-on experiential learning opportunities and collaboration among academic colleges as students conduct research with the latest technology. The CCU Space Program will allow students to develop strong job-transferrable skills and may inspire the next generation of explorers.”
Key Details of ChantSat-1:
- Size: 10x10x30 cm
- Camera Capabilities: Equipped with visible and infrared cameras
- Orbit: Low-Earth-Orbit (LEO) in a sun-synchronous, polar orbit
- Unique Feature: “Selfie system” with a programmable display
Wes Hitt, associate professor and chair of CCU’s Department of Physics and Engineering Science, stated that there are 81 CCU students involved in the project, working in paid research assistant positions and on subprojects derived from the mission. The program is advised by experts from NASA Langley Research Center, Maxar, and other space systems and engineering professionals.
ChantSat-1, about the size of a loaf of bread, will be launched in the summer or fall of 2027 at a cost of $1.2-1.5 million. The satellite will focus on utilizing space technology for scientific research to address coastal environmental issues, monitor water quality, and develop solutions for natural disasters.
Mission Objectives:
The CCU Space Program aims to:
- Address coastal erosion, sea-level rise, and stormwater runoff
- Maintain healthy drinking water quality
- Implement solutions for sustainable water management
- Develop innovative disaster mitigation and response strategies
The program is sponsored by Ansys Inc., Horry County Higher Education Commission, and various academic colleges within the University.
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
