Batya Vishnepolsky is project manager of RebelSat — an interdisciplinary group of UNLV students who are working to launch the first Nevada-built satellite. A senior in the Honors College, Vishnepolsky is majoring in electrical engineering. She is a recipient of the Michael Gail Andress
Memorial Scholarship; the Bartlett Electrical and Computer Engineering Scholarship; and the Honors College Student Ambassador Program Scholarship.

Why should the average earth-bound person be interested in satellites in space?
Let’s take a moment and imagine a world where no one had ever launched a rocket or satellite into space — our lives would be vastly different. GPS and long distance phone calls would cease to exist, the weather satellites wouldn’t detect natural disasters, and national security would be greatly hindered.

Thankfully, someone did come up with the idea to launch technology into orbit. Every satellite mission that is in the air has contributed to the advancement of science or technology. 

What is RebelSat’s mission?
I lead a passionate group of 50 students from all different majors that is actively developing Las Vegas’ first satellite as we speak. “RebelSat-1” is a small, low-cost satellite. We’re testing the use of a new material that has the potential to improve the durability and functionality of spacecraft components. It has the potential to bring Nevada to the forefront of space exploration and technology.

How has your involvement with RebelSat enhanced your student experience?
Through my experience in RebelSat, I’ve been thrown into a world of aerospace enthusiasts and made industry connections. 

I interned at Blue Origin, a space exploration company founded by Jeff Bezos. I received a National Science Foundation grant for the Smart Cities Program at UNLV. That allowed me to have an awesome research experience where I learned about radio signals and their applications to
smart vehicles.

Have your scholarships made a difference?
They have been life-changing. They allowed me to fully immerse myself in my studies and extracurricular activities. Scholarships, to me, are not just financial aid; they are a testament to your belief in the recipients, like me. I continue to be surprised that donors believe in me and want to
support me.

I’d like to thank the donors who help us see our potential and propel us to launch the future of UNLV— and in my story, quite literally.