Celeste IOD-1, developed by GMV and Alén Space under the European Space Agency’s (ESA) Celeste In‑Orbit Demonstrator (IOD) programme, has arrived at Rocket Lab’s Launch Complex 1 in Māhia, New Zealand. The spacecraft reached the site on 23 February and is now preparing to enter the final phase of launch campaign operations ahead of its planned liftoff later this month.

Celeste is ESA’s strategic programme to add a navigation layer in low Earth orbit (LEO) to complement Galileo and EGNOS, with the goal of improving the accuracy, resilience and security of Positioning, Navigation and Timing (PNT) services in Europe. The In-Orbit Demonstrator (IOD) is the programme’s first milestone and will validate key LEO-PNT technologies in flight prior to their possible future operational deployment.

The Celeste IOD phase is being executed by two European consortiums in parallel and will comprise a total of 11 satellites plus one spare. GMV, as one of the prime contractors, is responsible for the complete end-to-end mission, including system definition and design, the space and ground segments, the user segment and operations, for 6 of the demonstrator satellites.

For its part, Alén Space provides the initial 12U CubeSat platforms and collaborates in the manufacturing of several payload components for the satellites that make up the constellation, while also contributing its expertise in new key space methodologies for the mission.

From cleanroom to launch site

Following the successful completion of its testing and qualification campaign, Celeste IOD-1 was formally declared ready for flight and departed GMV’s facilities on 8 February. After a carefully controlled packing process under strict cleanliness and environmental conditions, the satellite was secured inside its dedicated transport container to ensure structural integrity, thermal stability and contamination control during transit.

The spacecraft subsequently travelled to Germany for launch integration activities at Exolaunch’s premises before being shipped to New Zealand.

In the coming weeks, the two satellites IOD-1 and IOD-2 comprising the Celeste In-Orbit Demonstrator mission will undergo final launch campaign operations, including post-shipment inspections, functional verifications, battery preparations and final integration procedures and mating prior to encapsulation and liftoff aboard a Rocket Lab Electron vehicle.

Demonstrating next-generation LEO navigation

Once in orbit, Celeste will begin with two demonstrator satellites — IOD-1 and IOD-2 — to secure the assigned frequency filings and to test representative navigation signals until the end of the year. The mission will demonstrate autonomous precise orbit determination without reliance on mission ground infrastructure, as well as stronger radionavigation signals in L- and S-band from low Earth orbit.

By demonstrating the benefit of integrating LEO capabilities into a multi-orbit architecture alongside Galileo (MEO), Celeste aims to enhance resilience against interference and expand advanced navigation services. Operating at altitudes between 500 and 560 km, the Celeste demonstrators will inform how a complementary LEO layer can enhance Europe’s Galileo system in medium Earth orbit.

Eight additional, larger satellites are currently under development, expanding on the initial demonstrators as part of a 12-satellite mission—11 operational spacecraft plus one spare—and paving the way for subsequent launches from 2027 onwards.

The post Celeste IOD-1 enters final launch preparations in New Zealand was first published in Alén Space.

Alén Space has presented the first in-orbit results of the SATMAR mission, designed to advance the digitalisation of maritime communications through the new VDES (VHF Data Exchange System) standard.

As part of the Small Satellites & Services International Forum (SSSIF 2026), Alén Space’s Chief Technology Officer, Alberto González, outlined the mission objectives, the satellite architecture based on a 6U CubeSat platform, and the payload configuration featuring two TREVO SDR units for AIS/VDES, feeder link and spectrum monitoring in the VHF, S and L bands. He also reviewed the launch, LEOP and commissioning phases, which have been successfully completed, confirming SATMAR’s proper performance since its launch in June 2025.

One of the key points of the presentation was the demonstrator pilot campaign carried out in Algeciras in December 2025, in collaboration with Egatel, the Port Authority of the Bay of Algeciras and the company Oritia & Boreas. The validation of the first use cases confirmed the objectives set for the project, which is funded through the Ports 4.0 programme promoted by Puertos del Estado and the Spanish Port Authorities.

SATMAR is now entering a new phase in its roadmap. The mission will incorporate improvements to the AIS payload and will launch a dedicated spectrum monitoring campaign across different frequency bands, with the aim of enabling new signal intelligence (SIGINT) applications based on the results obtained and the experience gained in orbit.

Updates on the evolution of TREVO and the ANSER mission

Within the technical programme of SSSIF 2026, Alén Space also showcased recent developments in TREVO, its high-performance software-defined radio (SDR) solution. The company highlighted the improvements introduced in the radio frequency modules through advanced electromagnetic simulation methodologies.

In addition, the Spanish National Institute for Aerospace Technology (INTA) presented the results of the ANSER mission and highlighted the performance of the inter-satellite communication system (ISL) developed by Alén Space. This Earth observation project, composed of a cluster of three small satellites, aims to monitor water quality in Spanish reservoirs and dams, study global warming caused by the increase of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, and analyse the impact of solar radiation on our planet.

Advances in the evolution of TREVO and updates on the SATMAR and ANSER missions consolidate Alén Space as a reference in the development of advanced communications technologies for small satellites, reinforcing its ability to deliver innovative solutions to the international space sector.

The post Alén Space presents the first in-orbit results of the SATMAR mission was first published in Alén Space.

An international consortium led by Alén Space, with the participation of GMV (Spain and Poland), WideNorth and Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM), has been selected by the European Space Agency (ESA) to develop a project focused on the detection and monitoring of radio frequency interference (RFI) from space.

The initiative is carried out under the FutureEO programme and funded by the European Space Agency, with the objective of developing a prototype capable of identifying and geolocating interference sources on the Earth’s surface across a wide frequency range, from 1 to 40 GHz.

The project addresses one of the current challenges of the space sector: protecting the radio spectrum against interference that can compromise the operation of Earth observation satellites and other critical space systems. To this end, the consortium will develop a CubeSat-format satellite prototype, conceived exclusively for ground validation, enabling the assessment of the payload’s capabilities and the associated algorithms for interference detection and geolocation.

As a pioneer in the development of spectrum monitoring technologies, Alén Space is responsible for the overall coordination of the project. Its activities include the preliminary design of the satellite platform, the manufacture of the payload and the satellite laboratory prototype, and the development of the on-board application for interference detection and identification. Alén Space will also carry out the necessary testing to validate the functionality of the payload, which is based on TREVO, the company’s high-performance software-defined radio (SDR).

The international consortium brings together entities from Spain, Norway and Poland. In addition to Alén Space, partners include WideNorth, responsible for the design, manufacturing and verification of the radio frequency front-ends that will form part of the payload prototype; GMV Poland, in charge of mission analysis and end-to-end system simulation; GMV Spain, responsible for defining ground segment algorithm requirements and conducting test campaigns; and Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM), which will design and develop the interference geolocation algorithms for the ground segment.

This contract strengthens the consortium’s position as a reference in the development of advanced spectrum monitoring technologies and represents a significant step towards expanding the range of space solutions aimed at protecting orbital assets and supporting future specialised constellations.

The project is already underway and has a planned duration of 24 months, starting on 1 December 2025.

Image credits: ESA (data source: ERMIT-SMOS RFI team)

The post Alén Space leads an ESA project for the detection of radio frequency interference from space was first published in Alén Space.

Alén Space confirms the completion of the first demonstrator pilot campaign of VDES (VHF Data Exchange System) technology aboard its SATMAR satellite. Over the past week, several use cases were tested in a real maritime environment in cooperation with Egatel and with the support of the Port Authority of the Bay of Algeciras (APBA).

The first demonstrator pilot enabled message exchange between a vessel and the port control center to optimize transit times, reduce emissions, and improve port coordination. A second pilot validated the transmission of environmental and oceanographic data from a drifting vessel (simulating an offshore buoy) illustrating the type of applications that VDES technology will enable using low-cost equipment and a secure communications channel specifically designed for the maritime domain.

In addition, Alén Space conducted a demonstration of long-range reception of AIS (Automatic Identification System) messages from the SATMAR satellite, allowing vessel tracking even when ships are operating beyond the coverage of coastal stations.

Before the end of 2025, the final pilot of this campaign will be carried out with the collaboration of Oritia & Boreas, which will install a VDES transmission terminal at one of its meteorological stations in the Bay of Algeciras. Alén Space, together with Egatel and other partners, will continue to conduct additional demonstration campaigns and pilot projects across different ports and use cases in the coming months.

In orbit for six months

SATMAR was launched into orbit on 23 June 2025 aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. Shortly thereafter, Alén Space successfully established first contact with the satellite. Since then, the in-orbit validation phase of the various subsystems and payloads has been carried out.

The main goal of SATMAR is to open a new chapter for the maritime sector by demonstrating the feasibility of the VDES communication standard in orbit, a technology set to eventually replace the current AIS (Automatic Identification System).

This new technology enables bidirectional satellite communications in the VHF band, even in remote offshore areas. The expanded functionalities offered by VDES also promise major improvements in the efficiency, safety, and sustainability of maritime traffic, along with new possibilities for digital services in port environments.

Developed entirely by Alén Space, the SATMAR satellite is part of a project that also includes Egatel as a partner and the collaboration of the technology center Gradiant. The project has been funded through the Ports 4.0 program, an innovation-driven initiative for the maritime sector promoted by Puertos del Estado and the Spanish Port Authorities.

This 6U nanosatellite will operate over Spain and its surrounding waters, with use cases developed in collaboration with the Port Authority of the Bay of Algeciras and other maritime sector companies such as Oritia & Boreas.

Satisfaction with the tests

Guillermo Lamelas, CEO of Alén Space, expressed his satisfaction with the results of the project’s initial pilots: “SATMAR has demonstrated its capability to provide bidirectional communications under the VDES standard in a real maritime environment. The validated functionalities are expected to deliver a substantial improvement in the efficiency, safety, and sustainability of maritime traffic, while simultaneously enabling new opportunities for the provision of digital services at sea. Satellite-based VDES ensures that vessels can maintain continuous communications with shore even in the high seas, receive emergency alerts, and access up-to-date operational information for route optimization, thereby contributing to reduced fuel consumption and associated emissions.”

The post Alén Space confirms SATMAR satellite tests in the Bay of Algeciras was first published in Alén Space.

Alén Space has completed the manufacture and delivery of ETRISat, a 6U CubeSat fully developed at its facilities in Nigrán (Spain) for the Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute (ETRI), one of South Korea’s leading public research organisations.

The satellite is now in orbit after being successfully launched on November 27 at 01:13 KST (17:13 CET on November 26) from the Naro Space Center aboard a Nuri (KSLV-II) rocket operated by the Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI). A few hours after lift-off, first contact was established, and the initial health check confirmed that the satellite is operating as expected. With this milestone achieved, the mission now moves into its next operational phases.

ETRISat’s primary objective is the in-orbit demonstration (IOD) of communications technologies, aligned with ETRI’s initiatives focused on the evolution of satellite and maritime communication networks. One of the mission’s challenges is the verification of signal transmission via ocean buoys equipped to collect data such as seawater temperature and wave height. During the mission, these signals will be relayed to ETRISat and subsequently transmitted to ground stations, enabling the evaluation of their effectiveness for real-time climate and ocean condition monitoring.

The satellite carries a payload based on TREVO, Alén Space’s high-performance software-defined radio (SDR). Two independent applications run on this hardware: one developed by ETRI, focused on validating advanced communications solutions, and another implemented by Alén Space for the transmission of AIS (Automatic Identification System) signals used in maritime traffic management. This flexible architecture enables the customer to deploy its own solutions on a robust, flight-proven platform.

Alén Space has delivered ETRISat as a turnkey project, covering all stages from mission design and AIV to test campaigns, the implementation of its Mission Control Software (MCS), and the initial in-orbit operations (LEOP). The Alén Space team’s ability to adapt to ETRI’s specific requirements, together with the experience gained in previous missions, made it possible to accelerate the satellite’s development timeline.

International collaboration and strategic outlook

ETRISat represents a new milestone in Alén Space’s international trajectory, strengthening its experience in the development of end-to-end missions and its position as a provider of high value-added space solutions.

“Working so closely with an institution like ETRI reinforces Alén Space’s international position as a reliable technological partner for highly innovative and demanding projects,” said Guillermo Lamelas, CEO of Alén Space. “South Korea is a global benchmark in technological innovation, and we hope that ETRISat will be the first step in a long-term collaboration.”

The fourth launch of the Nuri (KSLV-II) rocket, in which ETRISat flew alongside 12 other satellites, was also the first since the establishment in 2024 of the Korea AeroSpace Administration (KASA), underscoring the country’s ambition to become one of the world’s leading space powers.

The post Alén Space completes development of the ETRISat satellite for South Korea’s ETRI was first published in Alén Space.

Developed by a consortium led by SATLANTIS, together with Alén Space, DHV Technology, and GeoAI, IVSEN is developing a Very High Resolution (VHR) Earth Observation satellite optimized for energy network monitoring.

The payload is a very high-resolution telescope aiming to achieve less than 0.5 m resolution, integrated into a compact, lightweight platform compatible with small satellite launches, reflecting a joint commitment to innovative and commercially viable EO solutions.  

IVSEN builds around SATLANTIS’ VHR payload, the largest optical instrument in its portfolio, leveraging heritage from iSIM technology already in orbit. Designed as a “flying camera”, the system combines a high-performance satellite with turnkey services for infrastructure monitoring, offering both ownership of a standalone satellite or a full monitoring service with analytics and periodic reporting, tailored to energy-sector needs.

“IVSEN represents a strategic milestone for SATLANTIS, as it strengthens our capabilities in very high-resolution Earth observation, a core technology for the company’s future. We are grateful to the ESA InCubed programme for their trust and support in driving this project forward, and for enabling us to deliver an agile solution that will help energy operators and other users monitor and safeguard their critical infrastructures,” said Juan Tomas Hernani, CEO of SATLANTIS.

State-of-the-art microsatellite platform

On the platform side, Alén Space is leading the development of a state-of-the-art satellite structure, building on its proven heritage while introducing significant innovations across multiple subsystems, most notably the design of a highly reliable on-board computer (OBC) to ensure greater efficiency and reliability throughout the mission.

“At Alén Space, innovation is at the core of everything we do. We have built a strong track record in space engineering, both with subsystems and satellites already in orbit. IVSEN marks a natural evolution for Alén Space, showcasing our commitment to lead the development and provision of the highest value-added microsatellite platforms. This project represents an exciting milestone for our company and for the European space sector,” said Guillermo Lamelas, CEO of Alén Space.

DHV Technology will execute the development of the power subsystem for the satellite platform within the IVSEN project. Leveraging previously developed in-house technology, the Electrical Power Subsystem (EPS) will comprise a Power Conversion and Distribution Unit (PCDU), a battery module, and a set of solar panels engineered to meet stringent hardware and mission-specific requirements.

“As a specialized supplier of such systems for small satellites platforms, DHV will lead the development of this crucial subsystem of the spacecraft, in close coordination with the satellite structure development, payload integration, and requirements definition. Through this project, DHV demonstrates its ongoing commitment to advancing product innovation and the evolution of next-generation technologies,” Dr. Vicente Díaz, Managing Director and Co-founder of DHV Technology.

GeoAI Analytics, specialized in geospatial artificial intelligence and advanced data analytics, within the IVSEN project leads the Data Segment, developing the analytical framework and AI algorithms that transform Very High Resolution (VHR) satellite imagery into operational intelligence for the energy sector. Its work includes the design of predictive models for infrastructure condition assessment and risk anticipation, as well as the creation of digital twins and 3D environments that enable the visualization and simulation of energy assets.

These components constitute the analytical core of IVSEN, integrating seamlessly with the other system segments to deliver a comprehensive monitoring and intelligent management service for energy networks.

“At GeoAI, we believe that combining Earth Observation and Artificial Intelligence is key to building smarter, safer, and more sustainable energy infrastructures. Through IVSEN, we contribute to transforming satellite data into real operational intelligence, helping utilities anticipate risks, enhance efficiency, and strengthen the resilience of their networks,” said Luis Ferreira, CEO, GeoAI Analytics.

“ESA is pleased to support the industrial consortium via the IVSEN activity. InCubed is a commercially oriented programme that aims to enable innovative and viable products developed by industry, and IVSEN presents strong potential in this regard. We are hopeful that the combined expertise and close collaboration of the partners will result in a scalable and competitive solution for Very High-Resolution Earth Observation data. We look forward to working closely with the team throughout the implementation of this activity,” said Pejman Nejadi, InCubed Officer at the European Space Agency.

The post ESA InCubed IVSEN project kicked off was first published in Alén Space.

Within the framework of ESA’s Zero Debris initiative, Alén Space has taken part in the SpaceKeepers-1 (SK-1) pre-Phase A study, led by GMV with the collaboration of IENAI Space — three Spanish companies at the forefront of space innovation.

The SK-1 mission aims to develop technological solutions and best practices to protect Earth’s orbital environment, envisioning a quieter and darker space, and ensuring safe access to orbit while maintaining a cleaner and more secure orbital ecosystem.

The mission’s main objectives are to propose procedures and solutions to mitigate the visibility of satellites in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) through Alén Space’s innovative High-Aspect-Ratio (HAR) platform — a rising trend in future space operations. Additionally, SK-1 will demonstrate a new CubeSat propulsion system, the ATHENA NANO developed by IENAI Space, capable of enabling controlled re-entry of small satellites. Finally, the mission foresees the integration of an autonomous space locator beacon to enhance the traceability of space objects along its entire lifetime.

These efforts align with ESA’s CleanCube campaign: Zero Debris for CubeSat Platforms guidelines, emphasizing reduction of re-entry altitude, improved manoeuvrability and traceability, and assessment of satellite visibility and brightness — anticipating ESA’s evolving methodologies.

Together, these contributions lay the foundation for a pioneering mission that advances space sustainability and reinforces Europe’s leadership in responsible space management.

Image credits: ESA – CleanCube final public presentation

The post Alén Space contributes to the SpaceKeepers-1 mission concept as part of its commitment to sustainable space was first published in Alén Space.

The General Air and Space Academy (AGA) has selected Alén Space technology for its AGASAT project. This initiative marks a milestone for the AGA, with the objective of placing an educational 3U CubeSat into orbit, enabling its students to carry out their first space manoeuvres. The Spanish company’s DARA OBC has been selected as the satellite’s on-board computer (OBC), one of the key components in any space mission. The unit is already in production and is scheduled for delivery in the coming weeks.

The AGASAT project has a strong educational focus and was born within the AGA, the military academy of the Spanish Air and Space Force that trains future officers at the San Javier Air Base (Murcia). The AGA team, in collaboration with the Spanish National Institute of Aerospace Technology (INTA), is responsible for the satellite design, as well as the assembly, integration, and verification phases.

As part of the Academy’s training programme, a dedicated classroom focused on space has been created, allowing students to take an active role in the construction and deployment of a 3U CubeSat in low Earth orbit (LEO). The launch is scheduled to take place within PLD Space’s Miura 5 PARK initiative.

DARA OBC brings multiple advantages to this type of project: it enables customers to integrate their own on-board software (OBSW), offers highly configurable interfaces, and incorporates an inertial measurement unit (IMU), making it a robust and versatile system.

Alén Space’s participation in the AGASAT project reinforces its presence in programmes that combine innovation, education and technological development, underlining its role in strengthening an increasingly solid space ecosystem in Spain.

The post The Spanish Air and Space Force relies on Alén Space technology for the AGASAT project was first published in Alén Space.

Titled ‘Evolving New Space market trends from a nanosatellite manufacturer’s perspective,’ episode 78 of the podcast explores how the space sector is evolving and dives into several key topics:

• The transformation of the New Space sector over the past decade
• The industry’s shift from technology demonstration missions (IOD) to real services that bring tangible impact to life on Earth
• The profile of today’s customers and their growing requirements in terms of power, precision, and reliability
• The need to adapt satellite platforms to a market demanding greater scalability and efficiency

During the conversation, Isolina Pérez highlighted some of Alén Space’s most relevant projects and emphasized how the company’s growth has always been driven by real missions. That experience helped build a strong technological foundation in end-to-end missions, communication payloads, software-defined radios (SDRs), on-board computers (OBCs), TTC solutions, ground stations, and software development.

Looking to the future, Alén Space’s Commercial Director shared her views on some of the trends already shaping the industry, including a growing number of public initiatives and new business opportunities linked to defense, sustainability, traffic management, and space debris mitigation: “We’re going to see a trend of companies moving beyond low Earth orbit (LEO) and exploring new business models. Agility is essential, but always combined with resilience and long-term objectives.”

Alén Space remains focused on delivering solutions tailored to each client’s needs. “We always keep an eye on the market. We’ll grow and adapt our platforms to offer added value, not change just for the sake of changing,” remarked Isolina Pérez.

Listen to the full episode:

The post Alén Space shares insights on the evolution of New Space in Satsearch’s podcast was first published in Alén Space.

Sateliot has taken another major step forward in deploying its satellite constellation by commissioning Alén Space to manufacture five new units. These satellites, which will be part of its low Earth orbit (LEO) network, are scheduled for launch in 2026. The initiative strengthens Sateliot’s role as a dual-use (civil and defence) 5G satellite connectivity provider, aligned with Europe’s commitment to achieving strategic autonomy in space.

With this move, Sateliot continues to execute its roadmap to deploy a constellation of more than 100 satellites, built with proprietary technology developed entirely in Barcelona and validated by 3GPP — the international body that governs telecommunications standards — to ensure secure and interoperable global coverage.

The new satellites, to be manufactured at Alén Space’s facilities in Nigrán (Spain), include significant improvements over the previously deployed models. Enhancements include increased payload capacity for optimised performance in orbit.

This architecture is designed to deliver advanced communications services not only in civil environments but also for critical security operations, territorial protection, and emergency response. It further reinforces Sateliot’s position as a key player in the European space ecosystem.

Long-time partnership

The partnership between Sateliot and Alén Space is not new. Both companies already collaborated closely in the development of the first four commercial satellites in Sateliot’s constellation, which were successfully launched in August 2024 aboard a SpaceX rocket.

Sateliot currently has committed contracts worth around €270 million with more than 400 clients across 50 countries. Based on this foundation, the company projects reaching €1 billion in revenue by 2030, consolidating its position as Europe’s pioneering operator of global 5G satellite connectivity.

“This project proves that in Spain we are capable of building critical infrastructure from scratch,” said Jaume Sanpera, CEO of Sateliot. “We’ve developed open and interoperable made-in-Spain technology that not only addresses the need for global connectivity, but also contributes to Europe’s technological sovereignty.”

Guillermo Lamelas, CEO of Alén Space, added: “We’re proud to collaborate with Sateliot on such an innovative and pioneering project that will redefine the future of communications from Spain. This agreement is a recognition of the quality of our work on the first four satellites and further strengthens our position as the most reliable small satellite manufacturer.”

The post Sateliot expands its 5G constellation with five new satellites manufactured by Alén Space was first published in Alén Space.

The SATMAR launch has been successfully completed. Alén Space has placed its new satellite into orbit, marking a key milestone in a mission designed to drive the transformation of maritime communications through the validation of the new VDES (VHF Data Exchange System) standard.

SATMAR lifted off this Monday at 11:25 PM (CEST) from the Vandenberg Space Force Base (California, USA), aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. Shortly after launch, at 01:39 AM (CEST), Alén Space successfully established first contact with the satellite in orbit. The mission now moves into the phase of validating the performance of all subsystems and payloads.

The main goal of SATMAR is to open a new chapter for the maritime sector by demonstrating the feasibility of the VDES communication standard in orbit, a technology set to eventually replace the current AIS (Automatic Identification System).

This new technology enables bidirectional satellite communications in the VHF band, even in remote offshore areas. The expanded functionalities offered by VDES also promise major improvements in the efficiency, safety, and sustainability of maritime traffic, along with new possibilities for digital services in port environments.

Developed entirely by Alén Space, the SATMAR satellite is part of a project that also includes Egatel as a partner and the collaboration of the technology center Gradiant. The project has been funded through the Ports 4.0 program, an innovation-driven initiative for the maritime sector promoted by Puertos del Estado and the Spanish Port Authorities.

This 6U nanosatellite will operate over Spain and its surrounding waters, with use cases developed in collaboration with the Port Authority of the Bay of Algeciras and other maritime sector companies such as Oritia & Boreas.

Team gathered for launch

The launch brought together the Alén Space team at the company’s headquarters in Nigrán (Spain) to experience the deployment of SATMAR firsthand. Professionals from all departments gathered to follow the satellite liftoff in real time.

“This is a very important milestone for us,” said Guillermo Lamelas, CEO of Alén Space, “because it opens up exciting opportunities for both technological advancement and business growth. Thanks to this new standard, vessels will be able to maintain constant communication with shore even in deep sea, receive emergency alerts in real time, and optimize their routes to reduce fuel consumption and emissions, among other features. It’s a technology that will have a real impact on the daily operations of companies in the maritime sector.”

In addition to its primary mission, SATMAR includes a secondary payload that turns it into an in-orbit laboratory for software-defined radio (SDR). Its features include radio frequency spectrum monitoring in the VHF, L, and S bands, and innovative technologies for high-speed communications in the S-band.

Alén Space SDR technology onboard Startical’s IOD-2 satellite

The same launch also carried Startical’s IOD-2 satellite, designed to validate from space real-time VHF voice and data communications between pilots and air traffic controllers.

This mission, led by Startical, features software-defined radio (SDR) technology developed by Alén Space through its TREVO product, applied to the VHF, ADS-B and feeder link payloads.

The Alén Space team was also responsible for developing the specific application for ADS-B and feeder link. Meanwhile, the satellite demonstrator payload was designed by Indra with support from ENAIRE.

Through its contributions to these two missions, Alén Space strengthens its position as a key player in the New Space industry, delivering solutions tailored to strategic areas like maritime and air traffic management.

Launch image courtesy of SpaceX

The post Alén Space places SATMAR satellite into orbit to boost the digitalization of maritime communications was first published in Alén Space.

The digital transformation of the maritime sector is set to take a major step forward with the launch of SATMAR, a 6U nanosatellite fully developed by Alén Space. The launch is scheduled for June 23, aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, as part of the Transporter-14 mission from the Vandenberg Space Force Base in California (United States).

The project involves the participation of Egatel and is funded by Ports 4.0, an innovation initiative from Puertos del Estado and the Spanish Port Authorities, which aims to accelerate the digital transformation of the maritime sector by supporting disruptive projects with practical applications in port environments.

The main goal of SATMAR is to demonstrate the viability of the new VDES (VHF Data Exchange System) standard in real operational scenarios. VDES is intended to replace the current AIS (Automatic Identification System) in maritime communications.

This new technology enables bidirectional data transmission via satellite in the VHF band and addresses existing issues related to network saturation in maritime communications. It offers significant improvements in port operations as well as in the efficiency, safety, and sustainability of global maritime traffic.

The satellite, which will operate over Spain and surrounding waters, will serve as an on-orbit testbed to validate different use cases for both AIS and VDES standards, in collaboration with the Port Authority of the Bay of Algeciras and Spanish maritime sector companies such as Oritia & Boreas.

The mission aims to demonstrate several key capabilities of this emerging technology, including VDES signal transmission, reception of AIS and VDES, maintenance of connectivity even at long distances from the coast, more accurate estimation of vessel arrival times, emission of maritime safety alerts, and encrypted data transmission.

A pioneering project to revolutionize the maritime sector

“We’re proud to lead such a pioneering project as SATMAR,” says Guillermo Lamelas, CEO of Alén Space, “because it’s a technology with real impact on global maritime traffic. The VDES standard will be a revolution for the sector, enabling the digitalization of maritime communications, offering new services, and improving safety and efficiency in both port operations and vessels.”

In addition to its primary purpose, SATMAR also includes a secondary payload for spectrum monitoring, turning the satellite into a true in-orbit Software Defined Radio (SDR) laboratory. The mission will test innovative technologies for high-speed communications in the S-band, as well as its ability to monitor and detect RF interferences in the VHF, L, and S bands.

The payloads have been designed to allow in-orbit reconfiguration, making it possible to adapt the testing process as the mission progresses.

SATMAR represents the natural continuation of the SHIPMATE project (Satellite Hybrid Information Protocol for MAritime TElecommunications), previously developed by Alén Space and Egatel in collaboration with Gradiant, and reinforces the path toward digitalizing maritime communications from space.

The post Alén Space will launch SATMAR satellite in June to transform maritime communications was first published in Alén Space.

Alén Space is taking part in the development of the Perceive mission, which will have a direct impact on the environmental conservation of two of the planet’s most important ecosystems: the Amazon rainforest and the Cerrado savanna in Brazil.

The project, led by the University of Brasilia (UnB) with the participation of Alén Space and the Aerospace Technology Research Group from the University of Vigo, is focused on developing a FlatSat-type satellite platform and an environmental monitoring IoT system. The development of the FlatSat, along with the concept of operations and technological demonstration of the Perceive mission, is funded by the Federal District Research Support Foundation (FAPDF).

Alén Space is contributing to this initiative with several of its technological solutions. As part of the FlatSat, which serves as a testing platform, the project integrates a TRISKEL subsystem, functioning as both an On-board Computer (OBC) and telemetry control system, and two TOTEM software-defined radios (SDRs), which form the basis of the payload used to collect environmental data.

The main goal of Perceive is to gather key data on temperature, humidity, weather, and biodiversity in the Amazon and the Brazilian Cerrado. This information aims to enable more efficient and autonomous management of these natural environments while reducing Brazil’s technological dependence on third parties for access to critical data. The project is in the Preliminary Design Review phase, with the team currently focused on mission analysis, requirements definition, and the concept of operations.

Under the direction of professor and researcher Renato Borges from the University of Brasilia, the Perceive mission seeks to support not only biodiversity conservation, but also to improve responsiveness to natural disasters and build a structured database for scientific research and public decision-making.

The Alfa Crux background

This new step in the collaboration between Alén Space and the University of Brasilia builds on a well-established relationship over time.

In 2022, both institutions worked together on the Alfa Crux mission, a 1U CubeSat successfully launched from Cape Canaveral. Alén Space provided the technology, payload, and technical training to the Brazilian team responsible for developing the nanosatellite.

Through projects like this, Alén Space’s technology continues to strengthen its international presence in the New Space sector, actively contributing to global challenges such as environmental sustainability and improved satellite communications.

Image credits: DUVI

The post The Perceive mission boosts environmental protection in Brazil with Alén Space technology was first published in Alén Space.

From March 25 to 27, 2025, Seville is hosting the joint edition of ACCEDE and ESCCON, two major European events dedicated to the use of EEE (electrical, electronic, and electromechanical) components in space applications. As part of this congress, Alén Space presented on Tuesday, March 25, the results of the testing campaign supported by the European Space Agency (ESA) to verify whether the HALT (Highly Accelerated Life Test) method is an optimal system for validating the use of commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) electronics components in space missions. This project, led by Alter Technology, involved the participation of Alén Space and the Advanced Center for Aerospace Technologies (CATEC).

In the presentation, co-founder and Electronics Area Manager at Alén Space, Aarón Nercellas, provided a detailed overview of the experience and conclusions drawn from the HALT testing conducted on TOTEM, Alén Space’s software-defined radio (SDR), with flight heritage (TRL 9) and specifically designed for space missions with small satellites.

Performance testing under extreme conditions

This initiative went beyond traditional testing methods. Its purpose was to subject the hardware to conditions far beyond its operational limits. For instance, equipment was tested in freezing conditions down to -65°C, temperature elevations up to +120°C, vibrations of up to 22.5 gRMS, and Total Ionizing Dose (TID) tests for exposure to ionizing radiation with a Cobalt-60 source and accumulated doses up to 20 krad.

The goal was to evaluate failure modes, identify environmental performance margins of the components, detect weaknesses and potential improvements, optimize reliability, and accelerate product design evolution.

Among the most significant findings of this project were:

• Diversity of failure types: Some components failed destructively, while others exhibited intermittent failures or recovered functionality once stress conditions were removed.
• Real value of agile testing: HALT allowed for testing cycles: test > failure > analysis > repair > test again. This iterative approach favoured greater adaptability, review of test ranges, and identification of new failure modes under controlled conditions. However, due to the limited number of samples used, it was also inefficient in terms of test setups and facilities.
• Importance of data analysis: The tests highlighted the importance of improving data acquisition and telemetry systems. The origin of certain failures was not always obvious, and some anomalies could not be replicated under laboratory conditions. This information is critical for anticipating potential degradation trends in operational environments.

Reliability as a priority in New Space

One of the most significant conclusions of the test relates to the balance between agility and robustness in New Space missions. While the use of COTS components reduces costs and accelerates development cycles, ensuring reliability remains an essential requirement.

The HALT campaign demonstrated the value of combining accelerated testing strategies with targeted improvements in design. It also emphasized the usefulness of adopting a hybrid approach in small satellite development: incorporating space-validated components, when necessary, without sacrificing the flexibility and speed characteristic of the New Space sector.

These findings will also contribute to improving the products developed by Alén Space, according to Aarón Nercellas. “Our experience with the HALT project couldn’t be more satisfactory. The goal is to identify failure modes to learn and enhance the product through design and/or the selection of new components,” explains the Electronics Area Manager at Alén Space. “Space missions using COTS under the agile methodologies of New Space require increasing reliability. It’s no longer about technology demonstrators but about constellations that provide services and returns to the companies behind them. Understanding the limits of these technologies allows us to improve our products with the goal of delivering more robust and long-lasting missions.”

Featured image: Alter Technology

The post Alén Space presents the results of ESA-driven HALT project was first published in Alén Space.

Startical, a company backed by Indra and ENAIRE, officially unveiled its IOD-2 (In-Orbit Demonstrator-2) satellite this month, featuring SDR technology from Alén Space. The project aims to demonstrate the feasibility of a solution to optimize air traffic management from space.

The satellite incorporates multiple subsystems with software-defined radio (SDR) solutions provided by Alén Space through its TREVO product, applied to VHF, ADS-B, and feeder link payloads. For ADS-B and feeder link, Alén Space was also responsible for developing the specific application. The mission engineering and satellite payload were developed by Indra, with support from ENAIRE.

TREVO is a flight-proven SDR solution designed to adapt to various high-performance applications in space. Its modular and configurable capabilities facilitate integration with different systems and mission types.

Future constellation with over 200 satellites

The IOD-2 satellite, part of the ECHOES project, is currently undergoing testing at the facilities of the Spanish National Institute of Aerospace Technology (INTA). It paves the way for the Startical Constellation, which aims to deploy more than 200 satellites in low Earth orbit (LEO) in the future. This infrastructure will provide advanced surveillance and communication services for air traffic.

Equipped with a large VHF antenna and other aircraft position monitoring systems (ADS-B), Startical’s satellites will enhance communications, particularly in areas without coverage and remote regions.

Currently, when an aircraft crosses oceanic areas, it may enter zones without real-time voice communication coverage between pilots and controllers. As a result, aircrafts must maintain high separation levels to ensure safety, reducing airspace efficiency and limiting the capacity to manage high traffic volumes.

Startical’s global coverage proposal enables a much more efficient and secure air traffic management system, particularly in contingency situations such as route changes due to storms or medical emergencies on board. Additionally, it contributes to a more sustainable aviation industry by allowing aircrafts to choose optimal routes, thereby reducing fuel consumption.

Launch scheduled for mid-2025

The IOD-2 satellite has undergone rigorous electromagnetic compatibility, vibration, and functionality tests at INTA to ensure its operational capability in orbit. Its launch is scheduled for mid-2025.

With its involvement in this mission, Alén Space strengthens its position as a supplier of advanced technology for the space sector, in a project that once again showcases the capability of the Spanish industry to develop innovative solutions for critical global applications.

Featured image: Startical

The post Startical trusts Alén Space’s SDR technology in its IOD-2 satellite was first published in Alén Space.

In episode 73, titled ‘The ongoing evolution of CubeSat technology’, the show, hosted by Narayan Prasad, interviewed Antonio Vázquez, co-founder and Head of Business Development at Alén Space.

During the 30-minute conversation, the program delved into various topics related to Alén Space and the small satellite market:

• The evolution of CubeSat technology in recent years.
• The main market trends in the design and manufacturing of small satellites.
• The importance of cybersecurity in space, with relevant missions like CyberCUBE, driven by the European Space Agency (ESA) and led by GMV, with Alén Space’s participation.
• The development of missions aimed at providing innovative positioning, navigation, and timing solutions, such as the ESA’s LEO-PNT project, once again led by GMV in collaboration with Alén Space, OHB System AG, Beyond Gravity, and Indra.
• The push for 5G communication missions for the Internet of Things (IoT), like the constellation launched by Sateliot with Alén Space’s participation.
• The roadmap and future plans of Alén Space.

In contrast to industry statistics, Antonio Vázquez emphasized that “all of our CubeSats have always worked once in space, all the missions have been successful, which is something we have as a flagship of our DNA.”

For over 15 years, the Alén Space team has specialized in developing innovative technology and complete missions for clients worldwide. According to the company’s Head of Business Development, these two lines are closely connected: “It’s like a wheel: you develop the technology that allows you to go for more contracts, which in turn allows you to develop more technology, and so on.”

Antonio Vázquez acknowledges that Alén Space is working on new products and solutions, but without obsessing over satellite size, even though the market trend points toward larger satellites. “Right now, we’re working up to 16U, but we don’t limit or block ourselves with that. On our roadmap, we can see larger or different types of satellites, but ultimately, we are always focused on the technology, the market, and the added value for the customer—not just going bigger because everyone else is doing it. That wouldn’t be useful for our customers,” he explains.

In this regard, Alén Space’s co-founder is clear on where the focus should be: “At the end, what really matters is the application, the performance, and the market. I don’t know how the market will evolve or whether it will stabilize at any specific size, because maybe we’ll find a standard that fits everything. In any case, I’m not too worried because I know that whatever the future holds, we’ll be ready to provide the solution that delivers value for the customer.”

Listen to the full episode:

The post Satsearch podcast discusses with Alén Space the evolution and future of CubeSat technology was first published in Alén Space.

Alén Space is expanding its product range with the launch of DARA OBC, a low-power, high-performance onboard computer (OBC) designed for nanosatellites and microsatellites in low Earth orbit (LEO).

Compactly built in a PC104 form factor, DARA OBC is a flight-proven product (TRL9) with a design that makes it adaptable to any mission, providing extensive connectivity for subsystems and payloads.

DARA OBC enables software customization through its Software Development Kit (SDK) based on FreeRTOS, including drivers and CubeSat Space Protocol (CSP) support, allowing tailored solutions for each mission.

Key features of DARA OBC include:

• ARM Cortex M7 processor up to 280 MHz and 280 mW typical power consumption.
• Memory: 2 MB flash for programs, 1.4 MB internal RAM, 32 MB SDRAM, 512 KB SEU- and SEL-resistant MRAM, and up to 128 GB on microSD.
• Interfaces: 3xRS422, UART, 2xCAN, 2xI2C, and 15xGPIO.
• GNSS options: internal GNSS support for GPS, Galileo, GLONASS, and Beidou or external GNSS via PPS signal.
• 3-axis IMU: magnetometer, gyroscope, and accelerometer.
• Cryptographic capabilities: AES and HMAC.
• Operational range: from -40ºC to +85ºC, suited for space environments.

Additionally, our new OBC includes temperature and current sensors, a real-time clock (RTC) with external power for time retention during power-offs, and a switchable power supply to minimize consumption, making it a highly reliable and versatile choice.

With unmatched versatility, seamless connectivity, and robust storage, DARA OBC is a flight-proven OBC solution suited for a range of small satellite missions.

In Alén Space’s onboard computer portfolio, DARA OBC joins TRISKEL, the company’s all-in-one module that combines OBC, UHF TTC, and software, strengthening Alén Space’s offerings for small satellite missions.

The post Alén Space introduces DARA OBC: its low-power, high-performance On-Board Computer was first published in Alén Space.

The CyberCUBE mission, aimed at strengthening the European Space Agency’s (ESA) space cybersecurity, will leverage Alén Space’s technology. The Galician company will serve as a subcontractor within the consortium led by GMV, which was awarded the contract and will manage the mission’s lifecycle through its teams in Romania and Spain.  

The project is a key initiative within the Cyber Evolutions program of ESA’s Cyber Security Operations Centre (CSOC). Its goal is to provide the European Space Agency with cost-effective, reconfigurable cyber capabilities to demonstrate new in-orbit technologies, minimize risks, and accelerate the adoption of cybersecurity solutions in future missions. 

The consortium will handle the specifications, design, supply, assembly, verification, validation, launch, and LEOP (Launch and Early Orbit Phase) of the CyberCUBE mission. This initiative marks a crucial step in consolidating the cybersecurity of space assets and ensuring resilience against emerging cyber threats in future operations. 

Platforms and Control Center 

Alén Space, which has been part of the GMV group since 2023, will supply a 3U CubeSat platform equipped with advanced reprogrammable processing capabilities and a central payload dedicated to cybersecurity monitoring. The platform will remain operational in orbit for at least a year, during which essential data on space asset vulnerabilities and cyber resilience will be collected. 

Additionally, GMV will also supply components for the ground segment, including Alén Space’s mission control center integrated with GMV’s commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) FocuSsuite, and a representative flatsat. ESA’s CSOC will be the primary user segment, responsible for managing mission requests, ingesting raw data, and processing it for cybersecurity analysis. 

The contract includes GMV’s oversight of the launch segment to ensure the CubeSat is deployed into its designated orbit. The mission will focus on orbits that allow regular communication with ESA’s main antenna located at Redu (Belgium) in the European Space Security and Education Centre (ESEC). 

After the satellite’s commissioning, GMV will transfer control of CyberCUBE to ESA for nominal operations. The mission’s results will guide future cybersecurity strategies and help assess potential expansions based on performance and resource availability. At the end of its operational life, the CyberCUBE satellite will be decommissioned in accordance with ESA’s space debris mitigation policy. 

The CyberCUBE mission will validate the radio frequency (RF) capabilities of CSOC and demonstrate real-world applications of sophisticated data analysis tools designed to detect and counter potential cyber threats. In response to the growing need for stronger space cybersecurity, GMV will provide a pioneering in-orbit operational lab equipped with innovative cyber capabilities. This platform will support the development, testing, and refinement of cryptographic functions and key management strategies, and will collect valuable security data from operating systems. 

Image source: ESA 

The post Alén Space to participate in ESA’s CyberCUBE mission led by GMV  was first published in Alén Space.

The third edition of New Space Spain has come to an end today after two intense days, featuring over 40 speakers, 270 professionals, and 120 companies. The conference broke participation records from previous editions and turned Vigo into the epicenter of Spain’s space industry through a packed program of conferences and panel discussions.

Under the motto “The path to global leadership,” attendees at Sede Afundación Vigo had the opportunity to hear the most renowned representatives of the sector in Spain and Latin America discuss their key projects and the challenges faced by companies, public institutions, startups, research centers, and universities developing space-related projects.

The event also analyzed the key capabilities the sector possesses to turn Spain into a relevant player among the countries with a leadership position in the space industry.

Opening and welcoming attendees on the first day

The Galician Minister of Economy and Industry, María Jesús Lorenzana, and the State Delegate in the Free Trade Zone Consortium of Vigo, David Regades, inaugurated the event. They highlighted the spirit of collaboration between institutions and companies to bring Galicia and Vigo into the national and international spotlight of this strategic industry, which has “tremendous industrial and economic potential.”

Guillermo Lamelas, CEO of Alén Space and event organizer, emphasized the sector’s virtues and advancements since the first edition of the congress in 2018. Over these six years, the space industry has changed dramatically, especially in the last two years, when “the sector has experienced strong growth.”

Lamelas detailed the main projects currently being developed by the companies and organizations participating in the congress, with special mention of the recent creation of the Spanish Space Agency (AEE) and the Space Command (MESPA), both present at the event. “Now is the time to maximize synergies and combine public and private efforts and resources to take advantage of the great opportunities being generated and move forcefully toward global leadership, which is the driving force behind this congress,” he said.

Services, security, and capabilities of Spain’s space industry

In the panel discussion, representatives from Satlantis, Startical, Sateliot, Telespazio Ibérica, and Geosat discussed the significant innovation being undertaken to lead space services and the internal adaptation processes within New Space companies to serve non-space customers. Some participants felt that more investment is needed in Europe and that R&D should come from final contracts.

In the conference “Space: A key area for security,” Lieutenant Colonel Juan Soriano Paradinas from the recently created Space Command (MESPA), part of the Spanish Air and Space Force, stated that the Spanish space sector is undergoing a revolution, driven by an exponential increase in satellites in orbit: “Space is essential for security because the services it provides are crucial for modern life and are also limited resources that need protection.” The Lieutenant Colonel also highlighted that the creation of this new unit recognizes the aerospace sector “as an enabler and force multiplier,” and he assured that the future of space security is based on three pillars: international cooperation, the need for new regulations, and technological innovation.

The morning session continued with a second panel discussion titled “Key capabilities for global leadership,” featuring prominent companies in the sector, including Satlantis, DHV Technology, PLD Space, Arkadia Space, UARX Space, and ACORDE. The experts stressed that “it is crucial for Europe to be independent” from other space powers and that technology companies need to be agile and “not afraid to fail.” They also debated whether there is “over-regulation” in Europe, making competition with other countries more challenging, or whether there is a deeper issue that forces Europe to look, “for better or worse,” at powers like the United States.

The morning closed with a new segment dedicated to startups and entrepreneurial projects in the space sector, one of the main innovations of this third edition of New Space Spain. Galician companies Kreios Space and Valar Space, both participants in the Xunta de Galicia’s BFAero accelerator; the UVigo SpaceLab project from the University of Vigo; Andalusian Orbital Boost Aerospace; and Madrid-based Orbital Paradigm presented their business models and future plans to the more than 270 congress attendees.

Prominence for the European industry and the Spanish Space Agency

The first panel discussion of the afternoon session featured representatives from PLD Space, GMV, Airbus, Deimos Space, and Indra Espacio, who discussed the opportunities emerging in European space, moderated by Roberto Prieto-Cerdeira, head of the LEO-PNT project at the European Space Agency (ESA). The experts emphasized the importance of public opinion recognizing the relevance of space in their lives. They also stressed the need for ESA and institutions to act as anchor clients for companies in the sector, highlighted the need to reduce bureaucratic procedures, and insisted that Spain has demonstrated its ability to develop any project.

In the conference “Challenges of the Spanish Space Agency (AEE),” Juan Carlos Cortés, AEE Director, stated that the agency’s biggest challenge “is to meet the sector’s expectations.” He explained that its creation “not only responds to the sector’s urgent need but also to the strong political support behind its formation and the result of a collective effort.” According to Cortés, one of the agency’s key pillars will be its ability to devise a strategic plan for the sector and generate medium-term forecasts, a crucial aspect for ensuring the success of its projects: “We must not be reactive but prepare for the future.” With a forward-looking vision, he stressed that the agency does not identify with the traditional space approach or the emerging New Space approach but is instead oriented towards a Next Space, where innovation and foresight will set the course.

In the final panel discussion of the afternoon, “Joining Forces: AEE and Industry,” professionals representing DHV Technology, Startical, and GMV, along with Isabel Pérez Grande, Director of Science, Technology, and Innovation at the Spanish Space Agency, discussed the importance of an inclusive and global vision for the sector’s development. They highlighted both the economic challenges and the need to encourage young entrepreneurship, especially within the framework of the so-called Next Space. They agreed that the Spanish Space Agency will play a key role in optimizing resources and ensuring decisions are made in collaboration with all actors along the value chain. Moreover, they emphasized the importance of each European country defining its own space strategy, aligned with European regulations, and of keeping space accessible and sustainable for the future.

Vigo mayor, Abel Caballero, concluded the first day, expressing his excitement about hosting the event in the city and emphasizing the aerospace sector’s importance for the country’s progress. “We are thrilled to have you here in Vigo,” he said, expressing his confidence in the companies present, which have demonstrated “an infinite technological capacity.” Caballero stressed that collaboration between all entities contributes to shaping a strategic sector for Spain’s economic and technological development, recalling that during his tenure as Minister of Transport, Communications, and Tourism, the launch of the Hispasat satellite was prepared.

Public sector role analysis on the second day

On the second and final day, the congress delved into the role of public players in Spain’s New Space. In a panel discussion moderated by Teresa Riesgo, Secretary General for Innovation at the Ministry of Science, Innovation, and Universities, representatives from renowned public institutions in research, such as the Aerospace Strategic Group at the University of Vigo, the National Institute for Aerospace Technology (INTA), the Canary Islands Institute of Astrophysics (IAC), the Polytechnic University of Madrid (UPM), and the Space Sector Promotion Area of Catalonia (IEEC), highlighted the importance of strengthening a business network that allows professionals in the sector to build their careers in Spain, the critical role of public-private collaboration in seizing New Space opportunities, the urgency of ensuring the country’s technological and economic progress, and the need to integrate universities into the sector’s daily activities by training engineers and PhDs to meet the industry’s demands.

Secretary General for Innovation, Teresa Riesgo, highlighted the sector’s momentum in recent years, with initiatives like the Strategic Project for Economic Recovery and Transformation (PERTE) Aerospace, which has mobilized around €2.8 billion in public funds to support the creation of companies and coordinate the sector. Among its projects, she emphasized the creation of the Spanish Space Agency (AEE) last year.

New Space Spain 2024 continued with the conference “Integrating the Best of Both Worlds,” led by Miguel Ángel Molina, Space Council Chairman at GMV. Throughout his presentation, Molina addressed the evolution of the New Space concept and how this approach has transformed the space industry by incorporating technological innovation and greater private-sector participation. However, following the line proposed the previous day by Juan Carlos Cortés, Director of the Spanish Space Agency, Molina suggested moving towards a new term: Next Space, as the current terminology is becoming obsolete in the face of future challenges. He emphasized that this Next Space must adapt to market needs, foster public-private collaboration, and remain focused on sustainability and accessibility. According to Molina, “It is the market that truly sets the guidelines.”

Next, in the conference “Boosting New Space within ESA,” Emilio Vez, Head of the Industrial Policy Section at the European Space Agency (ESA), emphasized how the union between ESA and New Space has transformed project management, accelerating time-to-market and focusing solutions on the client. Vez pointed out that New Space is not a type of company but rather an approach that has positively impacted sectors like finance. He also highlighted the impact of programs like Boost!, NAVISP, and InCubed in promoting the commercialization and adoption of space technologies. As for Spain, he highlighted its key role in the Hera planetary defense mission.

At the end of the conference, Luis Martín, co-CEO of Arribes, took over to present the ESA Technology Brokers program, designed to facilitate the commercialization of space technologies. “We are not an R&D or innovation program; we are a sales program,” said Martín, emphasizing the mission of maximizing the benefits of space technology for Europeans. He also highlighted that Spain is the only country with all four Technology Brokers programs: Technology Brokerage, Spark Funding, IP for Commercialization, and Prepare 4 Space.

A window into Ibero-American New Space

As the closing session of New Space Spain 2024, representatives from the company Astralintu Space Technologies and public Ibero-American institutions such as the University of Brasilia, the Chilean Space Association (Achide), and the Secretariat of Science and Technology of the Province of Salta (Argentina), discussed the various realities and challenges that Ibero-American countries face in the space sector. This roundtable, titled “A Window into Ibero-American New Space,” was moderated by María Cristina Vives Ruiz, Space Business Line Director at Indra Espacio.

The experts emphasized the importance of strengthening international cooperation, noting that private companies must work hand in hand with governments that regulate their activities. They stressed the perception that the industry lacks funding and the need to develop unique value propositions. According to the panelists, this debate highlighted the need for a collaborative approach that allows Ibero-America to capitalize on its capabilities in the New Space sector.

New Space Spain as a meeting point

At the close of the congress, Antonio Vázquez, Head of Business Development at Alén Space, stressed that “the sector’s ambition requires agile and efficient bureaucracy.” For his part, David Regades, State Delegate at the Vigo Free Trade Zone Consortium, highlighted the evolution of the space field in Galicia, thanks to the work of Fernando Aguado, Director of the Aerospace Group at the University of Vigo, and the support of GMV. He affirmed that “New Space Spain is a meeting point and a brand for the future.” Finally, Teresa Riesgo, Secretary General of Innovation, emphasized the growth of the aerospace sector, noting that the government’s commitment has been significant. She expressed optimism about the future and the ministry’s openness to new ideas and projects.

This third edition of New Space Spain, organized by the Galician company Alén Space, was sponsored by GMV, DHV Technology, and Indra as the main sponsors, along with the support of public institutions such as the Vigo Free Trade Zone Consortium, the Xunta de Galicia, and the atlanTTic Research Center for Telecommunication Technologies at the University of Vigo. It also received sponsorship from other leading companies in the space industry, such as UARX Space, ACORDE, Airbus, Deimos, Geosat, PLD Space, Satlantis, Startical, Telespazio, Alter Technology, Ansys, Arkadia Space, IENAI Space, Kreios Space, Rohde & Schwarz, and Siemens.

The post New Space Spain 2024 consolidates the strategy to position Spain at the forefront of the space industry was first published in Alén Space.

The latest episode features Nikos Nikolopoulos, sales engineer and member of the commercial team at Alén Space. Over the course of the 22-minute interview, several key topics related to satellite communications were discussed:

• The reasons behind the growing demand for this type of applications.
• The solutions Alén Space offers in the area of communications, mainly through its software-defined radio (SDR) products, such as TOTEM and TREVO.
• Alén Space’s ability to develop end-to-end missions for its customers and provide other key subsystems for any small satellite project.
• The major projects Alén Space is currently working on.
• Industry trends and expectations for the coming years.

Nikos Nikolopoulos explained that “space is becoming a key protagonist in modern society, and the reason is that it can provide solutions for demanding challenges,” highlighting “climate change, natural disasters, governmental civil applications, or space research in many scientific fields.”

Regarding Alén Space’s software-defined radio solutions (TOTEM and TREVO), he emphasized that they offer “high versatility” to customers: “These are platforms that integrate hardware and software, making them highly configurable and allowing end users the development of applications. They cover a wide range of frequencies and can implement a lot of communication standards and protocols. Some examples of applications they can host include ADS-B, AIS, or VDES, and they can also be used for telemetry and telecommand, or for payload data transmission to Earth with high-data rates.”

When deciding between Alén Space’s SDR solutions, Nikos Nikolopoulos stressed the importance of considering various factors before making a decision: “The choice between these two SDRs depends on our customers’ requirements. For example, if they need higher processing power or simultaneous execution of applications.”

The interview also explored the potential of other products related to small satellite missions, such as TRISKEL or Alén Space’s Mission Control Software (MCS).

Listen to the full episode:

The post Alén Space analyzes the growing demand for advanced communications applications in the Satsearch podcast was first published in Alén Space.

The German Aerospace Center (Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt, DLR) has selected the Spanish consortium formed by Alén Space and GMV to develop the two satellites for the CubelSL IOD mission. Launch is foreseen for 2026.

After Launch and Early Operations, the control of both satellites will be handed over to the German Space Operations Center (GSOC), which is the central institution for spaceflight operations in Germany.

The main objective of the mission is to demonstrate and validate bidirectional optical laser communication between two CubeSats in orbit, utilizing the advanced functionalities of the Laser Communication Terminal developed by the DLR Institute of Communications and Navigation, named CubelSL LCT. This mission explores the improvement of inter-satellite communication at a minimum distance of 500 kilometers and a maximum distance of 1500 kilometers in the same orbit, as well as direct transmission to Earth, enabling reliable telecommand operations.

CubelSL aims to achieve a significant technological advancement in CubeSat communication systems.

Alén Space, leading this consortium, is collaborating with DLR for the first time. The Alén Space team will design and manufacture the platforms for the two 6U satellites at their facilities in Nigrán (Pontevedra), which will be built under the CubeSat standard. The technological multinational GMV will provide the AOCS expertise (Attitude and Orbit Control System) for the project. The mission will be overseen by the DLR Responsive Space Cluster Competence Center (RSC³), with active participation from the DLR Institute of Communications and Navigation and the German Space Operations Center (GSOC).

The RSC³ is one of the most advanced centers in Europe, conducting significant technological research and demonstrations in the context of Responsive Space. This includes solutions related to next-generation, resilient, and secure communications for satellites using lasers.

The post DLR and the Spanish consortium led by Alén Space collaborate on the CubeISL mission was first published in Alén Space.

The third edition of New Space España will once again make Galicia the meeting point for the Spanish space ecosystem. On September 26 and 27, 2024, the main companies, organizations, and startups of the so-called New Space will gather at the Afundación Headquarters in Vigo to explore the projects, capabilities, and opportunities of the Spanish space industry.

New Space España 2024 aims to serve as a platform for the exchange of knowledge, business collaboration, and the exploration of new business opportunities in areas such as Earth observation, satellite communications, space exploration, sustainable use of space, and exciting projects like the Atlantic Constellation or LEO-PNT driven by the European Space Agency (ESA).

Organized by Alén Space, a company specializing in the design, manufacture, and operation of small satellites, the event is supported by prominent sponsors such as GMV, Indra, DHV Technologies, Geosat, Startical, Satlantis, Telespazio, Deimos, Ansys, Rohde & Schwarz, and UARX Space, as well as the backing of public institutions linked to the promotion of innovation and talent, such as the Axencia Galega de Innovación (GAIN) of the Xunta de Galicia, the Consorcio Zona Franca de Vigo, and the University of Vigo.

The conference will feature talks by leading industry experts, panel discussions on key topics, presentations of innovative projects, and networking sessions designed to foster collaboration among companies, institutions, and entrepreneurs.

The Potential of Spain in New Space

The New Space field, which addresses the development of innovative space technologies and services, is experiencing unprecedented growth worldwide, driven by the prominence of small satellites, services associated with ambitious projects like new satellite constellations, and the reduction of costs and timelines. This new approach has expanded opportunities for companies and countries that previously viewed this field as unattainable.

In this context, Spain is in a privileged position to establish itself as a reference in the space industry, considering the existing human talent, technological capabilities, development of new solutions, a key geographical location, and the recent establishment of the Spanish Space Agency (AEE), which unifies and coordinates the sector’s potential.

New Space España 2024 promises to be a catalyst for innovation and collaboration in the Spanish space sector and aims to surpass the figures of previous editions, which saw participation from more than 60 speakers, 400 registrants, and 200 companies. To achieve this, it will feature representation from the entire value chain of the Spanish space industry, from satellite manufacturers to component and subsystem suppliers, launchers, investors, public bodies and agencies, and other relevant sector actors.

During the two days of the conference, renowned experts from the New Space industry will participate in various talks and round tables to analyze the main trends in the sector, major space mission projects linked to the Spain brand, and public-private collaboration opportunities that attract investment to a strategic market.

Tickets are now available for purchase on the official website www.newspaceespana.com.

The post The Spanish space sector demonstrates its cohesion and strength at the third edition of New Space España was first published in Alén Space.

The Atlantic Constellation, one of the main projects under the PERTE Aerospace initiative led by the Spanish Space Agency (AEE), will be developed with the expertise and knowledge of New Space companies from our country. Alén Space is part of the consortium led by Elecnor Deimos, which has been selected by the European Space Agency (ESA), the project’s technology manager, to define the Spanish Component of the Atlantic Constellation. The main partners of the consortium also include Satlantis and DHV Technology.

This constellation will consist of 16 small Earth Observation satellites, 8 of which will be developed in Spain and 8 in Portugal, aimed at monitoring climate change. Additionally, it will complement the European Copernicus system by providing high-frequency data, essential for supporting natural disaster mitigation efforts.

Definition of communication subsystems and RF payloads

The Atlantic Constellation will be carried out in two parts: Consolidation Phase and Implementation Phase. This contract falls within the initial phase of the project and will extend over three months. The main objective is to consolidate the constellation’s requirements in Spain.

The Alén Space team plays a crucial role, as they will define the communication subsystem, the data handling and control subsystem, and the Radio Frequency (RF) payloads for the 8 satellites to be developed in Spain.

Boosting Spanish space talent

The optical payloads will be managed by Satlantis, while DHV Technology will handle the constellation’s electrical power system, including the solar panels and electronic system. Deimos, as the leader of this consortium made up of companies based in Spain, will oversee the complete project definition, including the flight and ground segments. This project will carry out all these design and engineering tasks in our country, highlighting the talent of its teams and the technical capabilities of the supply chain.

Once the Consolidation Phase of the project is completed, the ESA will select a consortium to develop the Implementation Phase of the eight satellites of the Spanish Component of the Atlantic Constellation, funded by the Government of Spain through the Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities, PERTE Aerospace, and the AEE.

The post Alén Space contributes to the definition of the Atlantic Constellation for the Spanish Space Agency was first published in Alén Space.

The groundbreaking LEO-PNT mission by the European Space Agency (ESA) is already underway. Alén Space will be one of the key partners in the consortium of companies that will design and deploy the project, led by the technological multinational GMV, to which the Spanish company has belonged since the middle of last year. 

The aim of this mission is to develop key technologies and demonstrate the benefits of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites in positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) services. The program includes the development and launch of a constellation consisting of five satellites. 

Among the main members of the consortium are OHB System AG, Beyond Gravity, and Indra. Additionally, 14 representatives of end users and stakeholders from the LEO-PNT value chain are participating, with a presence in potential markets such as roads, railways, maritime, fishing, IoT for asset tracking, critical infrastructure, or indoor positioning. 

Alén Space will provide the initial platforms for CubeSat technology demonstration and collaborate with Beyond Gravity in manufacturing components of the payloads of the satellites that make up the constellation. The company based in Nigrán (Spain) will also contribute its expertise in new key space methodologies for the mission. 

This groundbreaking project, awarded to GMV for 78.4 million euros, will mark a before and after in the space industry. LEO-PNT will usher in a new generation of satellite-based navigation systems in key markets and applications, providing greater resilience, robustness, and signal accuracy compared to the traditional method in medium Earth orbit. 

The LEO-PNT mission includes the deployment of five satellites into orbit, the first of which will be launched within 20 months from the start of the project. This will act as a technology demonstrator based on a 12U CubeSat architecture. The constellation will be completed in 2027 with the launch of the remaining four satellites. 

This contract, to be carried out under the coordination of GMV, includes the design and development of satellites and payloads, the acquisition of launch services, the provision of a ground segment as a service (GSaaS), the development of a test user receiver, system operations, and experimentation and demonstration of LEO-PNT services with end users. 

The LEO-PNT satellites developed in this project will transmit new signals in UHF, L, S, and C bands that will complement those currently transmitted by navigation satellites such as Galileo and GPS. It will also demonstrate an innovative function called “LEO shield,” capable of assessing the integrity of GNSS signals received on board LEO satellites in real-time and alerting users in case of malfunction.

Image source: ESA

The post Alén Space will participate in the LEO-PNT mission of the European Space Agency  was first published in Alén Space.