Space Week at the Inter-University Department of Space Research
The Inter-University Department of Space Research at Samara University marked Cosmonautics Day with a vibrant series of events—both on Earth and in orbit! Organizers emphasized that the goal was not only to honor the legacy of space pioneers but also to inspire a new generation to explore the cosmos.
A video contest dedicated to the first human spaceflight drew 22 participants from 10 countries, all creating short films answering the question: “What does Gagarin’s feat teach me?”
The winner was Ameir Ally, a lecturer at the State University of Zanzibar (Tanzania). Among the creators of the five top entries were several school students—proof that Gagarin’s historic achievement continues to resonate deeply with young minds. The winning videos are available on the contest website.
From April 20 to 26, 2026, the winner’s name was transmitted from orbit every three minutes via the SamSat-Ionosphere nanosatellite. Radio enthusiasts around the world picked up the signal. In addition, the winner and authors of the best entries will receive exclusive postcards signed by the creators of the SamSat-Ionosphere satellite.
How Do Satellites Fly?
A free English-language webinar titled “Nanosatellite Motion Dynamics” offered an in-depth look into spacecraft engineering for anyone eager to deepen their knowledge of space technology.
Okhana Berger, a graduate student at the Inter-University Department of Space Research, introduced attendees to nanosatellite systems and orbital mechanics, explaining the external forces and torques acting on spacecraft and sharing methods of both active and passive attitude control.
The webinar attracted 194 participants from 54 countries. All received official certificates of participation from the Department. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with attendees praising the initiative by the Department and Samara University to democratize access to cutting-edge space knowledge.
Meet the Nanosatellite Day
During an open-house event, Samara school students passionate about space got a rare behind-the-scenes look at real-world space engineering. They learned about little-known challenges Yuri Gagarin faced during his legendary flight and toured the Nanosatellite Testing Center and the Nanosatellite Technologies Center. There, they saw the SamSat-Orion nanosatellite, scheduled for launch later in 2026.
The student club “Cosmic Gradient” showcased its own developments—ultra-miniaturized spacecraft so small they could literally fit in a pocket!
The day concluded with a space-themed quiz, and the winning team received commemorative gifts from the Department.
Track the Satellite!
Throughout Space Week, the educational nanosatellite SamSat-Ionosphere broadcast a special Cosmonautics Day radio greeting from orbit. The message was successfully received by 13 amateur radio operators across 10 countries—a testament to the global reach of Samara’s space outreach.
Denis Avaryaskin
