According to a Dec. 2 post on the European Space Agency Web site, a satellite designed and built by about 100 students in less than one year is nearing completion and is entering final tests in preparation for its May 2005 launch.

The satellite, named SSETI Express after the program’s name (Student Space Education and Technology Initiative). The satellite, which is about the size of a washing machine, will take photos of the Earth and then will serve as a transponder for amateur radio users.